As women in ministry, we often find ourselves seeking wisdom, strength, and peace in the midst of life’s demands. Prayer is our lifeline to God’s presence, a time when we bring our concerns and longings to Him. But how do we end these prayers? Do we walk away still carrying the weight of our burdens, or do we conclude in a spirit of praise and trust? The Apostle Paul’s example in Ephesians 3:20-21 gives us a beautiful blueprint.

1. Paul’s Powerful Prayer Pattern: Closing with Praise

In Ephesians 3:20-21, Paul concludes his prayer with what we call a doxology, a declaration of praise. He writes, “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.” Paul acknowledges that God’s power and plans are so much greater than anything we could think or even hope to ask.

This is not the only way Paul closes his prayers. In fact, his letters show a range of ways he concludes his heartfelt prayers, sometimes with blessings, expressions of gratitude, or affirmations of God’s faithfulness. Each is different and personal to the needs of the people he’s addressing. However, in Ephesians 3:20-21, Paul’s words provide us with a rich example of closing in praise, directing our focus back to God’s overwhelming capacity to act.

2. Why Ending in Praise Matters in Ministry

Ministry is full of moments that challenge us, calling us to lift up others’ burdens while we carry our own. Ending our prayers with praise helps us leave our concerns in God’s hands, trusting His power to work in ways beyond our understanding. Here’s how this practice can shape your prayer life:

• It Shifts Our Focus
  Praise reminds us that God is greater than our worries and limitations. When we end our prayers with worship, we reinforce our faith in His wisdom and sovereignty, rather than remaining focused on our challenges.
• It Builds Our Faith
  Declaring God’s ability to do “immeasurably more” than we could ask strengthens our belief that He is in control. This helps us to return to our ministry tasks with peace and confidence, knowing that God will provide what is needed.
• It Inspires Those We Serve
  When we model prayer that ends in praise, we encourage others to adopt the same mindset. Those we minister to can learn from our example that no matter what they’re facing, they too can trust God to work mightily in their lives.

3. Applying Paul’s Doxology to Your Own Prayers

Here are some practical ways you can incorporate a praise-filled ending to your prayers, just as Paul did in Ephesians 3:20-21:

• Reflect on God’s Faithfulness
  As you end each prayer, pause to thank God for past answers, His presence, and His unchanging nature. Acknowledge the ways He has already worked in your life and ministry, which can build your confidence for the future.
• Affirm His Power and Plan
  Speak the truth of Ephesians 3:20 over your prayers: God is able to accomplish more than we can imagine. Declare that God’s purposes and His power will exceed even your best ideas and hopes.
• Invite Others to Join in Praise
  When praying with others in your ministry, lead by ending in praise. Encourage those around you to remember God’s power and sovereignty, reinforcing a culture of trust and worship.
• Surrender Your Needs with Confidence
  Instead of simply concluding with “Amen,” try ending with a statement of trust, such as, “Lord, I trust You to do what only You can do,” or “To You be the glory, God, as You work out Your purposes.”

4. Living a Life of Praise Beyond Prayer

Paul’s doxology also challenges us to bring a spirit of praise into our everyday lives. When you find yourself weighed down by worries or the pressures of ministry, reflect on the truths of Ephesians 3:20-21. Remind yourself that the same God who is “able to do immeasurably more” is actively working within you and in your ministry.

Let’s take this powerful lesson from Paul to heart, remembering that ending with praise isn’t just about our words—it’s about a posture of the heart. When we trust in God’s ability to do more than we can ask or imagine, we experience a greater peace in our calling, knowing we’re secure in the hands of the One who can truly do all things.

May you find strength and encouragement as you follow Paul’s example, embracing a life of prayer that ends with faith-filled praise. In doing so, you bring glory to God not just in your words but in the confidence that radiates through your ministry.