Month: June 2025

“And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus”

INTRODUCTION

The christian life is not only about what we’ve been saved from, but also what we’ve been raised into. However, many believers are unaware of, and live beneath their spiritual privileges granted to them through their union with Christ.

Today, we want to explore what it means to be seated with Chirst.

Let us look at Ephesians 2:6 phrase by phrase:

1. “We Have Been Raised with Christ.”

Our spiritual resurrection has happend. It is not a future expectation but a present reality. We are no longer in the realm of death and defeat. Look up Ephesians 2:1-5.

▪︎ Our focus should no longer be on the negativity but positivity, not on impossibility but possibility. Check Colossians 3:1.

2. “We Are Seated with Christ.”

Believers are not just raised but seated with Christ.

The phrase “seated with Christ” speaks of:

(a) Authority- Christ is seated at the right hand of the Father, a position of authority. (Ephesians 1:20-21; Philippians 2:9-10).

▪︎ Since we are seated with Christ, we share in His authority and power. See Romans 8:17; Galatians 4:7.

(b) Rest- Christ has finished His work and is now resting in victory (Hebrews 10:12).

▪︎ If we are seated with Christ, then we rest in His victory. We should stop striving and start trusting.

(c) Access and Intimacy – Christ is seated with the Father. i.e. He is where the Father is.

▪︎ God didn’t just save us from hell, He gave us a place in His presence. He didn’t just rescue us, He enthroned us.

▪︎ A seat at the table means “belonging”. We are no longer strangers but sons and daughters. We have direct and unhindered access to the presence of the Father, and enjoy intimacy with Him. Check Ephesians 2:18-19.

3. We Are “Seated in Heavenly Places.”

Believers are raised up and seated not just anywhere but in heavenly places.

“Heavenly Places” connotes spiritual realm. For believers, it signifies a place of authority, blessing, and identity in Christ.

It implies:

(a) The Realm of Spiritual Authority

The invisible, spiritual dimension where God’s presence and authority operate (Ephesians 1:3).

▪︎ It’s not just about “heaven after death” (future hope), but the present spiritual reality affecting life now.

(b) Christ’s Exalted Position

It highlights Christ’s supreme authority and exalted status. Look up Ephesians 1:20-21; Philippians 2:9-10.

(c) The Believer’s Spiritual Position

Believers share in Christ’s authority and victory, even while still living on earth (Ephesians 2:6).

(d) The Arena of Spiritual Conflict

It’s where both divine authority and demonic activity interact, highlighting the need for spiritual awareness and armour. Check Ephesians 6:12-13.

Reflection: Read the following scriptures and identify some of the translations that happened when believers are saved: Jn. 5:24; Rom. 5:18; 8:1; 1Cor.  15:57; 2Cor. 8:9; 1Pt. 2:9.

Practical Implications of Being Seated with Christ.

By the reason of being seated with Christ in heavenly places, believers should:

(a) Walk in Authority

▪︎ Jesus gave us authority over the enemy-Luke 10:19.

▪︎ He gave us authority over demons (Mark 16:17), all manner of sickness, and all manner of disease (Matthew 10:1).

▪︎ He made us kings and Priests (Rev. 5:10). Kings possess and exercise authority and dominion.

(b) Live in Victory- We are more than conquerors and no challenge on earth can override our position in Christ. Check Romans 8:37.

(c) Rest in God, not in Our Efforts

Jesus calls us to rest in Him- Matthew 11:28-30. Compare Philippians 4:13.

CONCLUSION

By the reason of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, believers are not “spiritual beggers.” We are seated with Christ in heavenly places-lifted, empowered, and positioned to live a life of victory, intimacy, and rest. We should live in accordance with our new identity and position.

Prayer

Father, thank you for lifting me up and seating me with Christ. Help me to live from that place-with authority, peace and rest.

Introduction:

In 1 Timothy 2:1-8, the apostle Paul outlines the importance of prayer for all believers, highlighting its essential role in the life of the Church and the community.

Paul’s instruction to Timothy is not merely about personal prayer but about the collective, communal nature of prayer that unites the body of Christ.

Paul stresses that prayer is crucial for the peace and well-being of both the Church and society at large.

This passage teaches us how prayer should be central in our lives as individuals and as a community, and how it is fundamental in fulfilling God’s will for His Kingdom.

1. Necessity of Prayer: (1 Timothy 2:1-2)

Paul begins by urging that prayers, petitions, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, including kings and all those in authority.

First of all, then….,

This phrase shows the priority of prayer in church and believers’ lives. Paul underscores prayer as a key practice. In the early church, prayer was central to worship and community life (Acts 2:42). This highlights the belief that communication with God is vital for spiritual growth and guidance.

I urge that…..
Paul’s use of “urge” conveys a strong encouragement or exhortation, highlighting the necessity and urgency of the action. This reflects Paul’s pastoral concern for Timothy and the church in Ephesus, where Timothy was serving. The apostle’s urging is not merely a suggestion but a call to action, emphasizing the importance of obedience to this instruction.

The necessity of prayer in the life of the Church is clear: it is not just for our own needs but also for the well-being of society and leadership.

Paul emphasizes that prayer is foundational for peace, tranquility, and godliness, especially for those in leadership positions.

Without prayer, the Church cannot function effectively, and society will lack the wisdom and guidance it needs from God.

As a praying church, the necessity of prayer cannot be overemphasized. Our prayers should be diverse, encompassing thanksgiving, petitions, and intercessions. This communal approach to prayer fosters a deeper connection with God and a greater sense of responsibility towards our communities. Churches must prioritize intercession for leaders, communities, and nations to bring about lasting change.

2. Content and Types of Prayer: (1 Timothy 2:1)
Paul lists specific types of prayers: supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings. These prayers differ in purpose but are all integral parts of a comprehensive prayer life.

• Prayers: General prayers for any need or concern, also used for praise and worship.
• Petitions (Greek: deēsis) refer to requests made to God, usually in times of need.  Supplications: Requests made with urgency, often when we face dire circumstances.
• Intercessions (Greek: enteuxis) mean standing in the gap for others, praying on their behalf. A higher level of prayer where one mediates on behalf of others.
• Thanksgivings (Greek: eucharistia) focus on the acknowledgment of God’s goodness, even when circumstances may not be ideal. Acknowledging God’s provision, love, and grace, even in hardship.
• Paul stresses that prayer should not just be about personal requests but must include the larger concerns of society, such as political stability and peace.
• A church should embrace all forms of prayer, understanding that they are tools to express different dimensions of our relationship with God.
• Supplications express our dependence on God in times of need, while intercessions bring us into the heart of God’s will for others.
• Thanksgivings build our faith and trust in God’s sovereignty, even in uncertainty.

3. Centre of Our Prayer as a Church: (1 Timothy 2:3-5)

The center of our prayers, as Paul emphasizes, is the will of God—“This is good and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.”-Vs 3-4.

 The ultimate purpose of prayer is not to change God’s mind but to align with His will, which is the salvation of all people.

• The centrality of salvation: God’s heart beats for the salvation of humanity. Prayer is a tool that brings the Church into alignment with this divine purpose.
• The knowledge of truth refers to the revelation of the gospel, as Jesus is the truth (John 14:6). Prayer should bring people closer to this truth.
• The Church’s primary focus in prayer should be the expansion of God’s Kingdom. This involves praying for the salvation of individuals and for the gospel to reach all corners of the earth.
• Our prayers should never just be self-centered but should reflect God’s heart for the lost. Churches can encourage prayer initiatives for global missions and local evangelism.

4. Acceptable Prayer to God by God’s People (1 Timothy 2:8)

Paul calls for holy hands lifted in prayer, not with anger or disputing. This highlights that acceptable prayer is not just about words but about the state of the heart and the community’s unity.

• Holy hands: This refers to a life that is consecrated to God. Prayer is an act of worship that should come from a life of integrity and holiness- Psalm 24
• Anger or disputing: Paul stresses the importance of unity in the Church. Disunity and conflict hinder the effectiveness of prayer (Matthew 5:23-24).
• Praying with a clean heart is essential for God’s hearing.
  A praying church should be a united church.
• There must be a commitment to holiness and reconciliation within the community. We must ensure that unforgiveness, anger, and divisions do not prevent our prayers from being effective.
• As individuals and as a church, we must ensure our hearts are pure when we approach God in prayer.

5. Men and Women Who Pray for God’s Kingdom in Old and New Testament:
Both men and women in Scripture exemplified lives of prayer.

Paul specifically urges men to pray in every place, lifting holy hands (1 Timothy 2:8). Women, too, are to live in holiness and worship through prayer (1 Timothy 2:9-10). Prayer is not limited by gender but is open to all who desire to seek God’s will.

• In the Old Testament, figures like Abraham, Moses, and Hannah exemplified prayer. Abraham prayed for Lot’s safety (Genesis 18:23-33), Moses interceded for Israel (Exodus 32:11-14), and Hannah’s prayer led to the birth of Samuel (1 Samuel 1:9-20).
• In the New Testament, figures like Anna the prophetess (Luke 2:36-38), Paul (who prayed and urged others to pray), and Priscilla were notable examples of persistent and fervent prayer.

The legacy of prayer in the Bible should inspire both men and women in the Church to pray. Both genders have equal access to God in prayer and are called to participate in His work of intercession and petition for His Kingdom to come.

A praying church values the contributions of all believers, embracing the prayerful leadership of both men and women.

Life Application for the Church:

• The inclusivity of “everyone” underscores the universal scope of Christian prayer. This call to pray for everyone includes leaders and authorities
• Unity in prayer is crucial for the Church’s effectiveness in fulfilling its mission.
• Holiness should mark both individual lives and the corporate prayer life of the Church.
• The Church must actively engage in intercessory prayer, especially for leaders, communities, and the salvation of the world.
• We must encourage inclusive participation in prayer, ensuring both men and women take part in the collective mission of prayer for God’s Kingdom.

Conclusion:

1 Timothy 2:1-8 offers a clear mandate for the Church to be a praying community. The necessity of prayer, the diverse types of prayer, the focus on God’s Kingdom, and the unity required for acceptable prayer all point to one essential truth: the Church must be grounded in prayer if it is to fulfill its mission on earth.

As a praying community, we must prioritize the salvation of the lost, pray for the leaders and authorities, and ensure our hearts are pure and united in our prayers. By doing so, we reflect God’s will and advance His Kingdom on earth.

Through a consistent, unified, and passionate life of prayer, the Church can influence the world, align with God’s will, and bring His Kingdom to earth.

Essential are things we cannot do without, so it’s applicable to prayer. It involves understanding God’s priorities in the place of prayer, and making requests that are in harmony with His divine will. This also means trusting that God will hear and answer your prayers when they are aligned with His will. 
Day in and day out, Jesus’ disciples saw him steal away to spend time with his Father. They understood that his supernatural power and peace came from prayer (Mark 1:35; Luke 3:21-22; 6:12-13; Matt 26:36-44). They not only wanted to have what Jesus had, they wanted to become what Jesus was ( Matt.6:9; Luke 11:1-4) as they learnt the essentialsof prayer. To walk in his footsteps meant they would have to join him on their knees.

Throughout Scripture, we see prayer as having several distinct but interrelated dimensions including concept such as praise, pardon, and petition.

Praise
Prayer often begins with praise—acknowledging who God is and responding in worship. Praise is giving glory and honor to God, recognizing His divine nature and attributes. It involves acknowledging His majesty, wisdom, power, and goodness. The more we meditate on his character and compassion, the more we will want to glorify Him for who He is. The book of Psalms overflows with praise and adoration- Psalm 105:1-4;145:4
Focusing on God’s sinless character may have an uncomfortable consequence upon us, we will become profoundly (and perhaps painfully) aware of our own sinfulness. Like Isaiah in the presence of the Lord, we will cry out, “Woe to me…I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the LORD Almighty” (Isaiah 6:5). However, it should encourage us to strive to become more like God. Also, our minds will be drawn to our insufficiency and need to depend on God always.

Pardon
The good news is that Christ has dealt once and for all with our transgressions (Hebrews 7:27). Scripture says that we may now “…approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need” (Hebrews 4:16). Nonetheless, the apostle Paul instructs believers to carefully examine themselves to make sure they are right before God (1 Corinthians 11:28). Like David, we ask the Lord to sanctify our hearts: “Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting” (Psalm 139:23-24).
We therefore respond to God’s Spirit with contrition and confession. As the apostle John writes, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).
As believers in Christ, we receive the pardon that he provides us through his blood. We thank God for his mercy and forgiveness. We celebrate the unmerited favor and freedom we experience in Christ.

Petition
Having given God the glory he is due and aligned our hearts with his, we’re ready to bring our petitions before him. To ask God for something without first esteeming him and examining our motives is like the immature child who is more interested in what his parent can give him than in his relationship with his parent.
In Matthew 6:32-33, Jesus says that his Father knows what we need before we ask, but that he requires us to seek his Kingdom and character in order to receive it.
Prayer is therefore not telling God what’s on our minds and persuading him to change his. Rather, effectual prayer happens when God tells us what’s on his heart so that we might actually have “the mind of Christ” (1 Corinthians 2:16). Prayer is therefore not a “to-do” list for God as much as a “to-be” list for us. When our hearts and minds are aligned with the Father, then Jesus makes an incomprehensibly audacious promise. He will answer our prayers:

• Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than

Basis of Building a Home

Theme Preamble:

Proverbs 14:1 – “The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down.”- Intentionality; purpose and determination

Proverbs 31:10 – “Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies…”

These two scriptures frame a woman not only as a physical nurturer but as a spiritual architect.

Women are not just homemakers but kingdom builders, laying down spiritual, moral, and generational foundations for families and societies through wisdom, diligence, and prayer.

Building the Foundation:

In God’s design, “building” transcends physical construction—it is the act of shaping legacies, transmitting virtues, and enforcing divine agendas

in the earth. A wise mother, through her life, prayer, and principles, becomes both a natural nurturer and a spiritual architect.

Psalm 127:1 – “Unless the Lord builds the house, they labour in vain who build it…”

True building, therefore, must rest on divine foundations. Let us explore three key spiritual foundations:

In the Hebrew context, “house” (bayith) refers not just to a physical structure but to lineage, legacy, and spiritual heritage.

To “build a house” is to nurture a family, instill godly values, and secure a future for generations.

A mother is likened to a wise builder who constructs not with physical bricks but with covenant, consecration and character

Foundation of Covenant – The Spiritual Contract for Legacy

• Covenant refers to a sacred agreement between God and His people.

• A covenantal mother understands her motherhood not just biologically, but missionally—she is raising destiny carriers under divine promise.

Genesis 18:19 – “For I have known Abraham, that he may command his children… to keep the way of the Lord.”

Psalm 103:17–18 – “…from everlasting to everlasting the Lord’s love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with their children’s children…”

Biblical Symbolism:

• Covenant is the “blueprint”—God’s plan for the house, written in His Word and promises.

Examples:

• Hannah’s vow was covenantal—her son became God’s prophet (1 Samuel 1:11).
• Jochebed (Moses’ mother) hid him by faith, trusting God’s covenant with Israel (Exodus 2:1–10).

Spiritual Insight:

A mother must see her children through the lens of divine assignment. She raises sons like arrows

(Psalm 127:4), launched into the purposes of God.

Foundation of Consecration – The Altar of the Home

Consecration means to set apart for holy use. A consecrated mother dedicates her home, time, body, children, and resources to God. She turns her house into a prayer altar and worship center.

Romans 12:1 – “Present your bodies a living sacrifice…”

2 Timothy 1:5 – “I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice…”

Biblical Symbolism:

Consecration is the “fire on the altar”—the spiritual warmth and light that sanctifies the house.

Examples:

• Anna the prophetess (Luke 2:36–38) – lived in worship and intercession.
• The Shunammite woman built a prophetic chamber for Elisha—a symbol of consecrated space (2 Kings 4:8–10)

Spiritual Insight:

Consecration invites God’s presence into the home. A mother’s intercession becomes a shield over her family. Her example teaches her children reverence and surrender.

Foundation of Character – The Soul Structure of the Home

• Character is the moral and ethical framework that governs thoughts, choices, and habits.

• For mothers, this includes integrity, humility, patience, and kindness—traits that invisibly shape a home’s atmosphere

Proverbs 31:25 – “Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come.”

Proverbs 22:6 – “Train up a child in the way he should go…” (training begins with who the trainer is).

Biblical Symbolism:

Character is the “pillar” that holds up the house. Weak pillars collapse under pressure.

Examples:

• Abigail’s discretion saved her household (1 Samuel 25:33).
• Mary’s purity qualified her to birth the Messiah (Luke 1:38).

Spiritual Insight:

Children learn more from what a mother is than what she says. Her values become the home’s compass.

Building Block 1: Wisdom – Proverbs 1:7; 14:1; James 3:17

• In Proverbs, wisdom (ḥokmâ) is not merely intellectual; it is divine discernment.

• It flows from the fear of the Lord (Prov. 9:10) and is expressed in moral judgment, emotional intelligence, and gracious speech.

Proverbs 31:26 – “She opens her mouth with wisdom, and on her tongue is the law of kindness.”

• The virtuous woman is not loud or hasty; her words bring healing and instruction.

• She teaches not just by speech but by lifestyle.

Her home is a seminary of godliness.

Spiritual Lesson:

A wise mother:

• Sets spiritual tone (Deut. 6:6–7),
• Discerns timing and decisions (1 Kings 3:16–28),
• Guards against folly (Prov. 10:1).

Example: Abigail (1 Samuel 25) – A wise woman who prevented disaster through tact and spiritual insight, saving her household from destruction.

Building Block 2: Industrious – The Labour of Love

The Proverbs 31 woman is a model of Hebrew feminine excellence —a woman of valor.

Her industriousness spans commerce, home management, textile production, and philanthropy.

Proverbs 31:15–17 – “She rises also while it is yet night… girds her loins with strength…”

This description is not about multitasking alone but about stewarding resources and time for kingdom

impact.

Spiritual Lesson:

An industrious mother:

• Doesn’t eat the bread of idleness (Prov. 31:27),
• Reflects God’s order and creativity in homemaking (Genesis 1:1–2),
• Raises children in a structured and nourishing environment (2 Tim. 1:5; 3:15).

Example: Ruth – Though a widow and foreigner, she labored in the field and became part of God’s redemptive lineage (Ruth 2:11–12; 4:13–17).

Building Block 3: Prayer(ful) – The Foundation of Faith– Prov.31:18

• A prayerful mother partners with God in shaping destinies. The altar is her workshop, and intercession her tool.

1 Samuel 1:10–11 – “And she was in bitterness of soul, and prayed unto the Lord, and wept sore…”

Acts 1:14 – “These all continued with one accord in

prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus…”

• Prayer is not a backup plan; it is a mother’s first and enduring strategy.

Spiritual Lesson:

A prayerful mother:

• Breaks spiritual cycles (Judges 13:2–5 – Samson’s mother),
• Shapes spiritual heritage (2 Tim. 1:5 – Lois and Eunice).

Examples:

• Hannah – Gave birth to a prophet through persistent prayer.
• Elizabeth – Aged but faithful, her prayers were finally answered (Luke 1:13).
• Anna – A widow and intercessor who encountered the Messiah (Luke 2:36–38).
• The Shunammite Woman – Declared “It is well” and laid her dead son on Elisha’s bed in prophetic faith (2 Kings 4:23–37).

Conclusion:

Building Homes That Last

Building Beyond the Present

Matthew 7:24–25 – “The wise man built his house on the rock…”

That rock is Christ—and for a mother to build a house that withstands the storms of life, she must:

• Establish godly character – becoming a mirror of Christ.
• Live by covenant – raising children by purpose, not pressure.
• Remain consecrated – creating a spiritual atmosphere where God dwells.

A mother does not just raise children—she molds nations.

Her womb is biological, but her prayers are spiritual wombs birthing revivals, reformers, and righteous generations.

Proverbs 31:28–29 – “Her children rise up and call her blessed…”

A wise, industrious, and prayerful mother is not just raising children—she is raising prophets, intercessors, leaders, and godly seeds that will shake generations.

Call to Action:

• Build your home with divine wisdom.
• Labour in love without weariness.
• Let your knees stay worn from prayer, and your walls will stand strong.