"We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you." Colossians 1:3
"As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by ceasing to pray for you."
In Paul’s letter to the Colossians, he expresses his constant gratitude to God through prayer for them, even though he had never met many of them personally. It is a beautiful example of faithful intercession, lifting up others before the Lord despite the demands of his ministry. Paul, a man always on the move, with countless responsibilities, still found time to pray for those under his spiritual influence.
Similarly, Samuel, a prophet and leader of Israel, considered it a sin against God if he failed to pray for the people under his care. His statement in 1 Samuel 12:23 reveals a deep sense of duty. To him, neglecting prayer wasn’t just a personal failure; it was a failure in his relationship with God and his service to others.
In our busy lives, it’s easy to forget about intercession. Our prayers can become focused on ourselves—our needs, our struggles, our growth. But both Samuel and Paul remind us that to love others well means to pray for them. It means taking time, no matter how hectic life gets, to bring others before the throne of grace.
We are all called to be intercessors in some capacity, whether for our family, friends, church, or even for those we may never meet. Prayer is a ministry in itself. Through it, we can participate in God’s work in the lives of others, even when we feel distant or powerless.
Take a moment today to pray for someone you haven’t prayed for in a while. It could be a family member, a distant friend, or even someone who hurt you. Write down their name and commit to praying for them throughout the week.
