In prison, Paul made good use of his time! He prays with joy for God’s people (Philippians 1:3–4). If ever there were a man with calloused knees, it was Paul: ever in prayer, ever thanking God for working in the lives of the saints.

Prayer was a key task of the apostles as a whole. Acts 6:4: We [the apostles] will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word. Historically, the church has affirmed that these two tasks—prayer and ministering the Word—are the most important aspects of pastoral ministry.

A retired minister once reflected on his ministry, which in many ways was blessed by God and very fruitful. He said, I have not failed to study; I have not failed to visit; I have not failed to write and meditate; but I have failed to pray…. Sometimes because I did not like it; at other times because I hardly dared; and yet at other times because I had something else to do. Let us be very frank. It is a grand thing to get a praying minister.¹ These words hit close to home for many ministers. It is easy for a minister to devote too much time to preparing a sermon (and whatever else he is called to do) at the neglect of this duty, this joyful privilege! Do not let him forget. Do not let him fail to pray—not simply in the public worship services, but also in the study. Remind him. Encourage, yes, even admonish him if need be. Oh, how blessed to have a preacher who not only preaches but prays for the people whom God has entrusted to his care!

Of course, ministers are not the only ones who should have calloused knees. We all have a responsibility to pray for each other and to pray with joy. Prayer is a duty for us all.