FRIDAY January 24, 2025
Fulfill Your Ministry
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. For I bear him witness that he has a great zeal for you, and those who are in Laodicea, and those in Hierapolis. Luke the beloved physician and Demas greet you. Greet the brethren who are in Laodicea, and Nymphas and the church that is in his house.
Colossians 4:12-15
Paul’s letter has such a warm, personal touch to what has been largely a doctrinal letter. After recording the name Jesus who was called Justus, a man who befriended Paul, a circumcised Jew, he mentioned the name Epaphras. This man called Epaphras was the founder and leader of the Colossian church. He was their former pastor. He suffered as a prisoner in Rome with Paul (Philemon 23).
Epaphras was well known as a prayer warrior who often interceded for Paul and the Colossian church. What was he praying for specifically? For the will of God to be complete––fulfilled. How I thank God for those like Epaphras who are here among the congregation. They are our prayer warriors. Notice, among others, Luke the beloved physician is mentioned. All these fellow workers in the ministry were such comfort to Paul. Ministry can be hard, but many people have been a support and comfort to me, as I have been to them. That is what it is all about when we serve and work for the Lord together.
As Paul ends his letter to the Colossians, I want you to take careful consideration to his final words given to Archippus:
Now when this epistle is read among you, see that it is read also in the church of the Laodiceans, and that you likewise read the epistle from Laodicea. And say to Archippus, “Take heed to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you may fulfill it.” This salutation by my own hand—Paul. Remember my chains. Grace be with you. Amen (Colossians 4:16-18).
I challenge you to fulfill the ministry which the Lord has given you. Finish it. Finish well.
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
~2 Timothy 4:7~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
