Our Lord Jesus Christ prayed saying, “I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word; that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me.” (John 17: 20 - 21)
It is my intention in this article to point your attention to the fact that there is power in intercessory prayers and that God is looking for someone who will stand in the gap to pray for others. Will you be the one?
To intercede is to make oneself available to stand in the gap on behalf of others in prayer to God.
Nations around us are in turmoil, neighbors are afraid, family love towards one another is reducing, and lawlessness is abounding in people’s lives. What can a Christian do about these situations? Are they hopeless? The answer is NO! God is just waiting for someone who will stand in the gap to pray for others, then miracles and turnaround will begin to take place. Will you be the one?
It is recorded in the scriptures that Christians are to pray for one another because the effective fervent prayer of the righteous man avails much (James 5:16). Job obeyed God’s commandment to intercede on behalf of his friends, though they had done him wrong, and God honored his prayers and averted His anger against them (Job 42:6 – 8). Moses interceded for the Israelites many times in the wilderness because of their rebellion; he also interceded for his family members (Miriam and Aaron) in order to restore them (Numbers 12:1–13).
More scriptures that encourage intercessory prayers:
Jesus Christ is our example for engaging in intercessory prayers (John 17: 20-21 & Romans 8:34)
Jesus interceded for Peter to strengthen his faith. (Luke 22: 31 - 32)
The church interceded for Peter when he was in prison and the Lord answered (Acts 5:1-12)
Daniel interceded on behalf of his nation, while in exile in Babylon, with fasting, ashes and sackcloth, confessing their sins and pleading that God’s anger against his people be averted. The Lord answered (Daniel 9: 4 – 23)
Believers are encouraged to pray and intercede for one another, and their problems would be solved (James 5:13-16)
Believers are commanded to intercede for those in authority. (1 Timothy 2: 1 – 3), even those we perceive to be enemies (Matthew 5: 44; Luke 6: 28), and all people (1 Tim. 2:1).
What do you need in order to become an Intercessor?
Putting on the whole armor of God, because we fight against principalities (Eph. 6:12)
Faith that God answers prayers (James 1:6-7).
Love and passions for others.
Time, dedication, sacrifice and selflessness.
The Holy Spirit who can help and strengthen you to pray (Rom 8:26-34)
Questions:
Have you ever thought of dedicating yourself to praying for others in your family?
What about praying for neighbors or others that you do not necessary know?
Have you considered praying for nations of the world?
Do you believe that God can answer your prayers concerning others?
Would you consider joining an intercessory team in your church or community?
God is looking for intercessors (Ezekiel 22:30), will you be the one?
Now What?
Begin now to pray for nations, there lies your own peace, safety and prosperity (Psalm 122:6)
Get in the habit of praying for your leaders and ministers, so they may administer well (Heb. 13:18)
God bless you as you take steps; remember that you can do all things through Christ who gives you strength. BE THE ONE who dares to pray for others.
