Labor in Prayer

Communication with the Father is hard work! It takes steadfastness and stick-to-it-iveness! We must be determined to maintain a right relationship with our Lord so that the communication lines are open and with no hindrances or distractions. 'Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.' (Colossians 4:2 ESV) A sinful attitude, action or word toward God or others hinders our prayer life. 'If I had cherished iniquity in my heart, the Lord would not have listened.' (Psalm 66:18 ESV)

Besides a clean heart and holy life, effective prayers are to be laced with thankfulness because that is God's will and declares His sovereignty! 'pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.' (1 Thessalonians 5:17, 18 ESV) 

I 'labored fervently' for my boys as I gave birth naturally to Ryan and Bret! It was hard work, and took much diligence and concentration, but was well worth the reward! 'Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.' (Psalm 127:3 ESV)
Time spent struggling in prayer on behalf of ourselves and others reaps many great rewards and, the most amazing one is His abiding presence in our lives!'After these things the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision, saying, “Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your exceedingly great reward.” (Genesis 15:1 NKJV)

God's word also states that our prayers enable us, and other followers of Jesus, to stand perfect and complete in all the will of God. '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 NKJV)
May we all seek to be Epaphrases and labor in prayer on behalf of ourselves, others, and His Kingdom purposes.