In Paul’s letter to the church at Colosse, he referred to one who was a wrestler.
““(12) Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, greets you, always struggling on your behalf in his prayers, that you may stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God.” (Colossians 4:12 ESV)
“(12) Epaphras, who is one of you and a servant of Christ Jesus, sends greetings. He is always wrestling in prayer for you, that you may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured.” (Colossians 4:12 NIV)
[Note: The word translated “wrestling” here in the NIV and “struggling” in the ESV is “agonizomai”. Perhaps that makes you think of our English word “agonize.” According to W.E. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words, “agonizomai” was used for contending in the public games, denoted to fight or engage in conflict, was used metaphorically for contending perseveringly against opposition and temptation, to put forth every effort and specifically here in Colossians 4:12 as “to wrestle earnestly in prayer.”]
Do we find ourselves wrestling in prayer for others? If we have a genuine concern for others this would be a picture of part of our prayer time. It is difficult to understand what keeps some from accepting the Way of God. Sometimes we struggle with what keeps others away from the fellowship of the church. After all, if there is an attachment to the Head (Christ) there ought to be an attachment to the Body (the church). [Note John’s association of fellowship with Christ and each other in I John 1:7.] Then there is the struggle of what to say or do to influence others. Sometimes in prayer we may wrestle with a sense of frustration and the temptation to even give up on some. And so, wrestling continues as the heart pains for the spiritual (and physical) needs of others.
A great deal depends on the heart of others. As we struggle in prayer for them, may we look to God for courage and wisdom to find a way to touch them.
Have a great day WRESTLING WITH ENDURANCE ON BEHALF OF OTHERS!
Carl
