Have you noticed how often Paul speaks of prayer as an integral part of the life of faith? In his epistle to Colossae, as in others of his letters, he frequently writes about prayer, with the assumption that prayer is already an integral part of their life of faith. Not praying was not even an option. “Devote yourselves to prayer,” he said, “keeping alert in it with thanksgiving.” (Colossians 4:2) Paul continues to encourage these early church members in their prayer life. For example, in the long list of greetings which are found at the close of this letter is one which I find especially interesting. It is from “Epaphras, who is one of you,” Paul tells them, “a servant of Christ Jesus.” And then there is a testimony by Paul to Epaphras’ prayer life. “He is always wrestling in his prayers on your behalf.” (4:12) How many of us wrestle in our prayers on behalf of others as we seek God’s will? Or do we sometimes tend to have the answers to our prayers all worked out ahead of time, and tucked away in our pocket to use as needed?
-- Adapted from a message by Harriet Finney entitled "Perfect Harmony"
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