The Christian life involves a hidden yet vital battle, one not fought with physical weapons but in the spiritual realm. As believers, we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places (Ephesians 6:12 KJV). The Apostle Paul reveals this reality in his letter to the Colossians, describing his own intense struggle on behalf of others. This message, drawn from Colossians 2:1-5, urges us to recognise the unseen warfare that shapes our growth, unity, and faithfulness in Christ.
Engage in the Spiritual Battle for One Another (Colossians 2:1-3)
Paul writes, “For I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you” (Colossians 2:1 KJV). This great conflict was not for his own survival or comfort, but for fellow believers he knew personally, for those in nearby Laodicea, and even for Christians he had never met face to face. His earnest prayer was that their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ; In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge (Colossians 2:2-3 KJV).
Christian maturity includes fighting spiritually for one another. Unity, love, encouragement, and deep spiritual understanding do not arise from programmes, events, or human effort alone. They require dependence on God’s power through prayer. Obedience to Scripture matters, yet doing so in our own strength proves insufficient. The Christian life is supernatural, not natural; growth comes from God’s work, not merely from checklists or routines.
Samuel Chadwick observed that the one concern of the devil is to keep Christians from praying. He fears nothing from prayerless studies, prayerless work, and prayerless religion. Evangelism, teaching, and fellowship hold value, but without prayer they lack divine power. True encouragement often flows from naming others before God’s throne rather than from kind words or social gatherings alone. Pie fellowships and church picnics build relationships, yet the deepest unity and love emerge when we intercede earnestly for one another.
Paul’s battle targeted specific needs: comfort for weary hearts, bonds of love, full assurance, and treasures of wisdom hidden in Christ. In an age overflowing with information yet marked by perplexity, true wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord and is found in Jesus, who is greater than Solomon. We must pray purposefully for these treasures in the lives of others.
Guard Your Mind Against Deceptive Voices (Colossians 2:4)
Paul warns, “And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words” (Colossians 2:4 KJV). The enemy rarely attacks with overt force; he prefers deception. Voices compete for our attention, some plainly false, others seductive and appealing. Deceivers plant lies about identity, purpose, and truth, hoping to pull believers away from Christ.
The devil offers substitutes for God’s satisfaction: distractions that consume time better spent in Scripture and prayer, or counterfeit definitions of love that mock biblical family structures. Without anchoring in truth, we become swayed by what merely sounds convincing. Vigilance in prayer protects the mind and guards against beguiling influences that erode faith.
Stand Together Through Prayerful Presence (Colossians 2:5)
Paul concludes, “For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ” (Colossians 2:5 KJV). Though separated physically, he remained spiritually present through prayer, rejoicing in their steadfastness. Distance limits our hands but not our prayers. Geography cannot hinder spiritual warfare or fellowship in Christ.
Samuel Rutherford, exiled in the 1600s for his commitment to biblical truth, wrote letters from prison filled with Scripture, prayer, and encouragement. Chains restrained his body, yet they could not limit his intercession. In the same way, we stand together when we pray. A loved one in another country, a missionary in St. Lucia, or a discouraged brother or sister nearby can be strengthened through our petitions at the throne of grace.
Conclusion
The hidden battle of the Christian life demands faithful prayer rather than reliance on visible efforts alone. We engage spiritually for one another, guard against deception, and stand united through prayerful presence. Come boldly to the throne of grace, bringing specific needs, church concerns, family struggles, and national burdens before God. Depend wholly on His power, for victory belongs to Christ. May we commit to this unseen warfare, fighting on our knees for truth, love, and steadfast faith in Him.
