What can we learn from Epaphras's dedication to prayer in Colossians 4:13? Epaphras in Focus “Epaphras, who is one of you and a servant of Christ Jesus, sends greetings. He is always wrestling in prayer for you, so that you may stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God. For I testify that he is working for you and for those in Laodicea and Hierapolis.” (Colossians 4:12-13) What “Always Wrestling” Tells Us • Prayer is labor, not leisure. Paul uses athletic language—Epaphras “wrestles” (Greek: agōnizomai, to contend or strive). • The verb is present‐tense and continuous: Epaphras doesn’t dabble; he perseveres. • The aim of his struggle is specific: believers’ maturity and assurance “in all the will of God.” The Character Behind the Prayers • Local brother—“one of you.” Spiritual zeal starts at home. • “Servant of Christ Jesus”—identity anchored in submission. • His concern stretches beyond his hometown—Laodicea and Hierapolis feel his intercession. Lessons for Our Own Prayer Lives 1. Pray with purpose – Epaphras targets spiritual growth, not merely circumstantial relief (cf. Philippians 1:9-10). 2. Pray persistently – “Always” mirrors 1 Thessalonians 5:17: “Pray without ceasing.” 3. Pray sacrificially – Wrestling implies energy, time, even weariness (Romans 15:30). 4. Pray broadly – Include believers you may never meet in person (Ephesians 6:18). 5. Pray for assurance – Many saints need confidence that they already have in Christ (Hebrews 10:22-23). Practical Steps to Follow Epaphras’s Example • Block out focused slots—treat them like immovable appointments. • Keep a written list: local church, neighboring congregations, missionaries. • Move past “bless them” to kingdom objectives: maturity, discernment, perseverance. • Pair Scripture with supplication—let passages such as James 1:4 and Colossians 1:9-12 shape requests. • Enlist partners; invite others to “join in my struggle” (Romans 15:30). Encouragement from the Wider Witness of Scripture • James 5:16—“The prayer of a righteous man has great power and produces wonderful results.” • Acts 6:4—apostles guarded prayer time to protect ministry vitality. • Romans 12:12—“Persistent in prayer” sits beside hope and patience as marks of true worship. A Final Word of Challenge and Hope Epaphras proves that one praying saint can bless multiple cities. The Spirit still uses fervent intercession to fortify believers, spread assurance, and advance the will of God. His example invites each of us to step onto the mat, wrestle in prayer, and watch the Lord do what only He can do. |
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