Labouring In Prayers For Other People

Epaphras, who is one of you, a bondservant of Christ, greets you, always laboring fervently for you in prayers, that you may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God (Colossians 4:12).

The phrase translated “labouring fervently” from the Greek “Agōnizomai” which is a root word for “Agonise.” The word means to contend, to fight with an adversary. This is what Paul wrote saying to Timothy, “Fight the good fight of faith….” (1 Timothy 6:12).

Paul tells the Christians in Colossae that Epaphras was always “Fighting and contending” for them in prayers. He contended with satanic forces on their behalf. Hallelujah! What an attitude! That’s part of what you do in interceding for others.

And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God (2 Corinthians 4:3-4 NIV).

The scripture shows us why we must fight and contend the lost souls. The problem is Satan—the “god of this evil world”—has blinded their minds! For such people, you must contend for their souls in prayer; you “agonise” in intercession for them. Glory to God!

You pray that the light of the glorious Gospel shines in their hearts, and they embrace the grace of God for their salvation; the presence of God grips their hearts and God’s Word prevails in their lives. Pray like this for those who aren’t yet born again, and you’ll be amazed at the result.

You continue in intercession through prevailing. You contend and wage war over their minds and hearts and that they are guided to the Word of God, in the Name of Jesus. That’s how it works. That’s how we labour, strive, fight and contend for the lost souls.