Notice that these requests pertain to their liberty: that they would be free from the bonds of Satan—to hear and receive the gospel.

First request: that the Holy Spirit would prepare the soil of their heart for the seed of the gospel. 

 Preparation is so important.  As the farmer prepares the soil (as he turns the ground over with the plow, runs the disc and the rake over the ground, and fertilizes and waters the soil so that the seed he plants will germinate) so must the Holy Spirit prepare the heart of the lost soul to receive the seed of the gospel.  For the Word of God will not be heard, will not penetrate a heart that is hard and callused by sin.  Therefore, let us pray for the Holy Spirit to begin that process of preparing the soil of hearts, especially of those you plan…