A Prayer According to God’s Will

Thursday, May 7, 2026

“I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;” (1 Timothy 2:1-3 KJV).

On this United States’ National Day of Prayer, we pray you pray according to the Lord Jesus Christ’s will for today!

Today, religious people—the general public, clergy, and government officials—will assemble nationwide, like they do every year, and pray for spiritual and moral revival of the “Christian” (?) United States of America. We commend their noble efforts, but God’s Word says there will be no godly revival of any of the world’s Gentile nations until Jesus Christ returns to earth at His Second Coming (Isaiah 11:9; Isaiah 59:20–60:3; Zechariah 8:20-23; Revelation 11:15; et cetera).

The LORD’s words to King Solomon are often quoted on this day: “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14).

Friends, this is certainly God’s Word, but has nothing to do with Gentiles in the United States in the Dispensation of Grace. This verse has a context often overlooked—the nation Israel under the Mosaic Law, praying in relation to God’s Temple in Jerusalem (verses 15,16). Actually, that Temple was destroyed over 19 centuries ago! Unlike Israel, the United States was never a divinely-founded nation. The American people as a whole are not God’s people like Israel was.

Rather than praying 2 Chronicles 7:14, remember today’s Scripture (God’s Word to us Gentiles). The verse following today’s Scripture says, “[God] Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth” (1 Timothy 2:4). Pray for those in authority, that they would trust Jesus Christ alone as their personal Saviour, and then grow in His Word to them so they can make wise decisions on behalf of the people they govern.

Saints, please remember this work of the ministry requires monthly financial support to operate (Galatians 6:6; Philippians 4:16-17; 2 Corinthians 9:6-7). Those who prefer electronic giving can donate securely here: https://www.paypal.me/ShawnBrasseaux. Anyone who wishes to donate by regular mail can visit https://333wordsofgrace.org/contact-us-mailing-address-for-donations/ for details. Thanks to all who give to and pray for us! Unfortunately, since our ministry audience is so large and our ministry staff is so small, I can no longer personally respond to everyone. Thanks so much for understanding in this regard. 🙂

Continue #3

Wednesday, May 6, 2026

“Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee” (1 Timothy 4:16 KJV).

A single word can mean the difference between victorious Christian living and notorious Christian dying….

See chapter 5 of Paul’s first epistle to young Timothy: “[11] But the younger widows refuse: for when they have begun to wax wanton against Christ, they will marry; [12] Having damnation, because they have cast off their first faith. [13] And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not. [14] I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, guide the house, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully. [15] For some are already turned aside after Satan.”

Finally, we read from the sixth chapter: “[3] If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness; [4] He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, [5] Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself. [6] But godliness with contentment is great gain. [7] For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. [8] And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. [9] But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. [10] For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.”

Whether chapter 1, or chapter 4, or chapter 5, or chapter 6, First Timothy contains warning after warning after warning after warning regarding how Satan actively attacks Christian/grace doctrine. These deeds are particularly in the context of ministry, the local church, where young Timothy himself serves the Lord. Paul knows Timothy must learn that a single word means the difference between victorious Christian living and notorious Christian dying….

NOTE: In order to bring you a special study tomorrow, we will temporarily break away from this devotionals arc….

Continue #2

Tuesday, May 5, 2026

“Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee” (1 Timothy 4:16 KJV).

A single word can mean the difference between victorious Christian living and notorious Christian dying….

Turn now to chapter 4 of 1 Timothy, today’s Scripture and context, paying special attention to the opening verses of 1-5: “[1] Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; [2] Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron; [3] Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth. [4] For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving: [5] For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.

“[6] If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained. [7] But refuse profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness. [8] For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come. [9] This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptation. [10] For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that believe.

“[11] These things command and teach. [12] Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity. [13] Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. [14] Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery. [15] Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. [16] Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.”

First Timothy presents additional advice….

Continue #1

Monday, May 4, 2026

“Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee” (1 Timothy 4:16 KJV).

A single word can mean the difference between victorious Christian living and notorious Christian dying….

Recently, a dear brother in Christ made an inquiry of me. Exactly how do preachers and teachers undergo the transformation from good to bad? In Christendom’s denominations—and, unfortunately, even in the supposed “Grace Movement”—these individuals take up the right side of issues and then adopt the wrong side of issues. I myself have seen it for almost 20 years in ministry. From where exactly are these people coming? Their entrance seems to occur instantly, as if they “appeared out of thin air.” Alas, such is not the case. The matter we are describing here can best be explained by this quote that another dear brother in Christ shared with me: “Big change takes longer to happen than you think it would, and then it happens faster than you thought it could!”

Before exploring today’s Scripture, it would greatly advantage us to survey other verses directed to Pastor Timothy. These lay out the reason for the admonition or warning of today’s Scripture: “As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine, Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: so do. Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned: From which some having swerved have turned aside unto vain jangling; Desiring to be teachers of the law; understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm…. This charge I commit unto thee, son Timothy, according to the prophecies which went before on thee, that thou by them mightest war a good warfare; Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck: Of whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander; whom I have delivered unto Satan, that they may learn not to blaspheme” (1 Timothy 1:3-7,18-20).

There are more such passages in 1 Timothy….

The Fulness of Him That Filleth All in All #5

Sunday, May 3, 2026

“Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all…” (Ephesians 1:23 KJV).

What is the definition of this obscure expression, “the fulness of him that filleth all in all?”

“Fulness” can be defined as “that which has been filled.” Once filled, the fulness can then become the complement or completion of whatever or whoever filled it. Here is our function as the members of the Church the Body of Christ. Filling us with His life, Christ can serve as our Head/Leader/Director. We are thereby rendered fit to achieve Father God’s eternal purpose—exalting His Son, Jesus Christ, in the heavenly places in the ages to come!

“But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:…” (Ephesians 4:15). “For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body” (Ephesians 5:23). “And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence” (Colossians 1:18). “And not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God” (Colossians 2:19).

“Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” (Philippians 2:9-11). Father God has assigned Christ to be the Head of Heaven’s governments positionally (cf. Colossians 2:10). This is for our benefit (Ephesians 1:20-23), for He as our Head can now link us to an heavenly inheritance. He profits as well. Our participation in those heavenly realms make Him the Head of Heaven’s governments practically.

“Him that filleth all in all” is this. Christ fills “all” (first “all”) members of His Body with His life. Then, He fills the offices of Heaven’s government with those members. Finally, they (“in all” those heavenly places) fill Heaven with Christ’s life!

The Fulness of Him That Filleth All in All #4

Saturday, May 2, 2026

“Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all…” (Ephesians 1:23 KJV).

What is the definition of this obscure expression, “the fulness of him that filleth all in all?”

The Church the Body of Christ is Christ’s “fulness,” for He needs us to accomplish Father God’s will in the heavenly places. After He fills us with His life, we individual believers fill the heavenly places with that very life.

“In all” of today’s Scripture is a prepositional phrase highlighting our occupation of all heavenly governmental offices (“all things”). “That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him:…. And [Father] hath put all things under his [Son’s] feet, and gave him to be the head over all things [governmental offices in the heavens—all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named; verses 20,21] to the [advantage of the] church, Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all” (Ephesians 1:1,22,23).

“For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself” (Philippians 3:20,21). “He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things [all governmental offices].)” (Ephesians 4:10).

“For by him [God the Son, Jesus Christ] were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven” (Colossians 1:16-20).

Let us summarize….

The Fulness of Him That Filleth All in All #3

Friday, May 1, 2026

“Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all…” (Ephesians 1:23 KJV).

What is the definition of this obscure expression, “the fulness of him that filleth all in all?”

Read carefully the wording of Ephesians 1:22,23, today’s Scripture with the prior verse: “And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.” Obviously, “the fulness of him that filleth all in all” is a title of the Church the Body of Christ.

“Fulness” (a variant spelling of “fullness”), of course, is the state of being full or complete. The Church the Body of Christ is the Lord Jesus Christ’s “fulness,” or what completes Him, as in a complement. Some Bible readers needlessly struggle to understand this (“How could Jesus be ‘incomplete’ without us?!”), but, as long as we are mature saints, it really is not complicated. In order to facilitate His exaltation in the heavenly places, He needs the Church which is His Body. That group is an extension of His own influence as the God-Man, we as individuals being vessels of His life. As we govern the heavenly places in eternity future, so He reigns in and through us.

The “filleth all” links to Father God’s plan to fill us with Christ’s life, Father God’s very life, which the indwelling Holy Spirit makes real in our life. “In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation [dwellingplace] of God through the Spirit” (Ephesians 2:21,22). “…[T]o be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith;… that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God” (Ephesians 3:16,17,19). “Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:…” (Ephesians 4:13). “…[B]ut be filled with the Spirit;…” (Ephesians 5:18). “When Christ, who is our life,…” (Colossians 3:4).

Let us now break down “in all….”

The Fulness of Him That Filleth All in All #2

Thursday, April 30, 2026

“Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all…” (Ephesians 1:23 KJV).

What is the definition of this obscure expression, “the fulness of him that filleth all in all?”

Ephesians is advanced doctrine, far more complex than (basic, fundamental, elementary) Romans: Ephesians truth builds and expands upon Romans truth. The theme of Ephesians is the Church the Body of Christ, an entity or group formed via the Gospel of Grace presented in the first five chapters of Romans and whose conduct or lifestyle operates according to Romans chapters 6–8 and chapters 12–16. Ephesians amplifies Romans’ individual issues and renders them into corporate issues: Ephesians underscores how Father God is creating and maintaining a people whom He has designed to serve Him in the heavenly places in the ages to come.

We reiterate. Ephesians has the Church the Body of Christ as its primary theme. Today’s Scripture and the verse before it read, “…the church, which is his body” (Ephesians 1:22,23). Here is the “one body” of Ephesians 2:16 and Ephesians 4:4, “the church” of Ephesians 3:10,21. Such is “the body of Christ” of Ephesians 4:12, “the body” of Ephesians 4:16, as well as “the church… the body… the church… the church… a church… his body… the church” of Ephesians 5:23-27,30,32. This “body” is a group of believers God is “calling out” from the people of the world using Paul’s Gospel of Grace. (“Ekklesia,” here translated “church,” is defined as “called-out assembly;” “church” means “belonging to the Lord.”)

The church of this present dispensation is Christ’s “body” because all its members (individual Christians) work together under one Head (Christ; see Ephesians 4:15), just as our physical body has many members (body parts) managed by one brain. See 1 Corinthians 12:12-14: “For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. For the body is not one member, but many.”

We are closer to deciphering the enigmatic vocabulary of today’s Scripture….

The Fulness of Him That Filleth All in All #1

Wednesday, April 29, 2026

“Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all…” (Ephesians 1:23 KJV).

What is the definition of this obscure expression, “the fulness of him that filleth all in all?”

There are actually two terms within this phrase that must be deciphered before we can appreciate its overall effect, and we are unable to comprehend that terminology until we start with the context (immediate [surrounding words/verses] and remoter [neighboring chapters and Books]). Bible students should ever be mindful of identifying the setting and letting it govern the direction of their thoughts, for this greatly reduces the risk of misinterpretation.

We begin reading at verse 15 and go to the end of the chapter (one long sentence!): “Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints, Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.”

This is the first of two model Pauline prayers in Ephesians (the other ends chapter 3). Paul prays for his Christian brethren in Ephesus, the capital of Asia Minor (western Turkey), to whom he had preached in Acts chapters 18 and 19 during his second and third apostolic journeys. Some years later, at the close of Acts, he writes to them….

To Kneel or Not to Kneel in Prayer? #6

Tuesday, April 28, 2026

“For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,…” (Ephesians 3:14 KJV).

Does today’s Scripture insinuate the “proper posture of prayer” is kneeling?

Friend, if you want to kneel to pray, raise your hands to pray, bow your head to pray, or close your eyes to pray, that is your business, but do not expect God to smile upon you more or give you what you want simply because of such positions or movements. Also, keep this in mind: it does not make you “more spiritual” or “better” than someone who does not kneel to pray, who does not raise their hands to pray, who does not bow their head to pray, and who does not close their eyes to pray. Do not be sucked into the trap of formalism. Posture can be—and has been—faked in religion for thousands of years. Kneeling does not automatically equate to humility or spirituality, just as standing does not necessarily mean arrogance or worldliness.

Whether you get down on your knees, or lift your hands, or bow your head, or close your eyes… it makes no difference to God when you pray. We should pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17)—so that means prayer is far more than physical posture, for it is absolutely impossible to always have eyes closed, always have heads bowed, always have hands up, and always have knees down. How your outward body is positioned in prayer is totally irrelevant. What matters is the inner man. Is faith or unbelief guiding you? Is it done in Bible understanding or Bible ignorance?

Pour out your soul before the LORD, as Hannah did in 1 Samuel 1:15, talk to Him in light of what He told you in His rightly divided Word. If the Word of Christ dwells in us richly in all wisdom (Colossians 3:16), then pouring out our heart before the LORD will reinforce in our minds what He has said to us. This is what is pleasing to Him. If we do not know His words to us, then we had better get over to Romans to Philemon and start reading and believing, so we can drive out the superstition, foolishness, carnality, childishness, and darkness that so easily beset us during prayer-time!