The Apostle Paul's words in Colossians 4:12 encapsulate the essence of intercessory prayer – a profound and passionate commitment to standing in the gap for others, carrying their burdens before God until we see a breakthrough. He writes about Epaphras, saying, "He is always wrestling in prayer for you, that you may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured."
The Greek word used here for "wrestling" is "agonizomai," which conveys a sense of intense struggle and effort. It's the same root from which we derive the English word "agonize." This illustrates that true intercessory prayer isn't a casual endeavor; it's an earnest, heartfelt engagement that often requires us to fight in the spiritual realm for the well-being of others. Paul understood the weight and urgency of intercession, demonstrating that it's a vital aspect of our faith journey.
Reflecting on my own experience, I remember a time when I was a new Christian, filled with zeal yet grappling with the challenges…
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