The other day, I heard the Lord say, ‘You have been in travail.’ I’ve encountered this term before, so I did some research on travailing in the Spirit. Travailing can manifest in different ways. I love it when He speaks to my spirit; it’s unlike any other voice. Sometimes, you need to hear from Him directly. While messages from various people of God have their place, nothing compares to a personal word from the Lord.
In John 16:20-22, Y’shua said, “I assure you and most solemnly say to you, that you will weep and grieve [in great mourning], but the world will rejoice. You will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will be turned into joy. A woman, when she is in labor, has pain because her time [to give birth] has come; but when she has given birth to the child, she no longer remembers the anguish because of her joy that a child has come into the world. So for now you are in grief; but I will see you again, and [then] your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take away from you your [great] joy.
The term “travail” in a biblical context generally refers to intense labor or suffering, particularly associated with childbirth. In Hebrew, the word often translated as “travail” is עָמָל (amal), which can mean toil, labor, hardship or wrestling in agony of prayer.
Biblical Context
- Childbirth: In the Holy Bible, travail is frequently used to describe the pains of childbirth. For example, in Isaiah 26:17-18, the experience of a woman in labor symbolizes the anguish and suffering of the people.
- Spiritual Struggle: Travail can also refer to a deeper, spiritual struggle or effort, often associated with prayer or intercession, where one experiences intense emotional or spiritual labor.
Hebrew Significance
- Struggle and Effort: The concept emphasizes not just the physical aspect of pain but also the emotional and spiritual dimensions of struggle, reflecting both the challenges of life and the hope of new beginnings that follow such trials.
Overall, “travail” encompasses themes of suffering, effort, and the potential for new life or transformation. There are times when we are birthing on behalf of others – whether it’s salvation, healing, a miracle, or deliverance.
Sometimes this spirit of travail does not manifest with visible tears or crying, but it occurs deep within us, and it cannot be uttered. We just hurt on the inside for others.
Romans 8:26 – Likewise, the Spirit also helps our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
Hannah, the mother of the Prophet Samuel is another example of a travailing person. Her story is found in 1 Samuel 1:5-18, where we see her weeping in deep anguish to the point that the priest accuses her of being drunk. Hannah’s heartfelt travail ultimately resulted in the birth of a son.
1 Samuel 1:5-18 – In her deep anguish Hannah prayed to the Lord, weeping bitterly. And she made a vow, saying, “Lord Almighty, if you will only look on your servant’s misery and remember me, and not forget your servant but give her a son, then I will give him to the Lord for all the days of his life, and no razor will ever be used on his head.” As she kept on praying to the Lord, Eli observed her mouth. Hannah was praying in her heart, and her lips were moving but her voice was not heard. Eli thought she was drunk.
While studying, I came across a bondservant of Christ named Epaphras, which I found very interesting. Colossians 4:12 says, ‘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.’
Here’s a summary about this faithful servant of Christ:
The Faithful Servant: Epaphras in the New Testament
In the early days of the Christian church, many figures played crucial roles in spreading the Gospel and nurturing the faith of believers. One such figure is Epaphras, a lesser-known but impactful leader from Colossae. His story is a testament to dedication, prayer, and spiritual leadership.
Who Was Epaphras?
Epaphras is primarily mentioned in the letters of the Apostle Paul, particularly in Colossians and Philemon. He is described as a “dear fellow servant” and a “faithful minister of Christ” (Colossians 1:7). His commitment to the Gospel and the spiritual well-being of the Colossian church is evident throughout these texts.
A Minister of the Gospel
Epaphras is believed to have been instrumental in the founding of the church in Colossae. Paul acknowledges his role in teaching the believers, highlighting the impact he had on their faith. In Colossians 1:7, Paul writes, “You learned it from Epaphras, our dear fellow servant, who is a faithful minister of Christ on our behalf.”
A Prayer Warrior
One of the most striking aspects of Epaphras’s character is his fervent prayer life. Paul notes in Colossians 4:12 that Epaphras is “always wrestling in prayer” for the Colossian believers. His deep concern for their spiritual growth and maturity showcases the importance of intercessory prayer in the life of a leader.
A Commitment to Christ
Epaphras’s dedication to the faith is further underscored by his imprisonment alongside Paul. In Philemon 1:23, Paul refers to him as “my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus.” This highlights not only his loyalty to the Gospel but also his willingness to endure suffering for the sake of Christ.
Conclusion
Epaphras may not be as well-known as other biblical figures, but his life exemplifies the qualities of a faithful servant: dedication to the ministry, a fervent prayer life, and unwavering commitment to Christ and His church. As we reflect on Epaphras’s example, may we be inspired to serve faithfully in our own communities, remembering the power of prayer and the importance of nurturing the faith of others.
After the Travail:
There is good news! After the travail comes the baby! So, keep pushing! Push through the pain. You will not die on the table in Jesus mighty name! Whatever you are travailing for in the spirit will manifest. It will not die but it shall live! After the travail and the baby comes, there shall be a season of blessings, rewards, rejoicing, celebration, and jubilation—a time of rest and restoration. Hallelujah! You will forget the pain, the labor, and the anguish of your travail. God will give you beauty for ashes, joy for mourning, and praise for heaviness. You will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living and the fulfillment of His promises. Hallelujah to our King! It will seem like a dream. It will seem so unreal. Your mouth will be filled with laughter and your tongue with joyful shouting. You will proclaim – the Lord has done great things for us whereof we are glad!
Psalm 126:1-6: When the LORD brought back the captives to Zion (Jerusalem), We were like those who dream [it seemed so unreal]. Then our mouth was filled with laughter. And our tongue with joyful shouting; Then they said among the nations, “The LORD has done great things for them.” The LORD has done great things for us; We are glad! Restore our captivity, O LORD, As the stream-beds in the South (the Negev) [are restored by torrents of rain]. They who sow in tears shall reap with joyful singing. He who goes back and forth weeping, carrying his bag of seed [for planting], will indeed come again with a shout of joy, bringing his sheaves with him.
My next blog will discuss the concept of spiritual midwives. I heard this phrase from the Lord as well. Be sure to check it out!