Devotion 4: Laboring in Prayer

Some of the greatest things in life require hard work and dedication. Something about putting in the work makes the payoff even sweeter. Though many would agree with this sentiment, when it comes to living it out, people often change their tune. Time and time again, we grab for what is quick and easy rather than putting in the time and effort for what is best.

What is something that you are proud of? What makes you proud of it?

Are you someone who gives up easily? Why or why not?

"Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water." Hebrews 10:19-22

Here we see the incredible privilege we have to go before God in prayer because of the sacrifice of our High Priest, Jesus Christ. What a wonderful gift given to us through His sacrifice! It is a gift of access; we get to have deep communion with the God of the Universe. Oftentimes, when we think of prayer, we think of it as a simple way to lay our needs before the Lord. This can be a facet of prayer, yes, but it is not the only aspect of our prayer life. 

Paul, when writing to the Colossians, speaks of a man among them who is an incredible prayer warrior. Take a look at how Paul describes him. "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). I find it fascinating that Paul uses the word “struggling” to describe this man's prayers for the Church. He is laboring in this “fight” of prayer before the Lord for them. Epaphras's prayers are hard work.

What do you think it would look like to labor in prayer? Have you ever prayed this way?

This struggle is a day-in, day-out, consistent labor of love in prayer. When I think of someone who is a prayer laborer, I think of my grandmother. Every day she prays for each of her children, their spouses, her multitudes of grandchildren, and even her great-grandchildren. She uses the privilege she has because of the work of Jesus to go before the throne on behalf of others, and does so consistently, without fail.

Who in your world would you consider a prayer laborer? Why?

A struggle is a constant fight, and to struggle in prayer is to continue that fight in earnest. Many of us tend to be flaky when it comes to prayer, pulled to and fro by the tides of our desires and discouragement. Deep prayer warriors remain constant and steadfast as they go before the Lord and lay things before Him.

Let me challenge you to write a few names or requests down that you need to struggle in prayer for. Spend some time praying for them each day this week, starting right now.