In case you've never noticed, let me tell you that prayer is hard work!
Paul certainly understood that. Therefore, he also understood what he was asking for, when he urged people to pray for him and his work. So, what is our motivation for doing this "hard work"? Doesn't God already know what we need? Why bother to pray? After all, God's will is what really matters, isn't it?
Paul involves the Father, the Son, and the Spirit in his urging the Romans to pray for him. Today's passage is a challenging look at prayer - its motivation, its purpose and its rewards.

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.