What is the prayer of intercession?
Intercessory prayer is simply talking to God for someone else. You’re asking for His help and intervention in another person’s life, for a group, a specific situation, a church, or even an entire community. Some people believe that intercessory prayer opens a special channel to God, revealing insights and possibilities that can reshape situations for the better.
It’s believed that intercessory prayer is powerful and has the ability to move God into action. When you pray for others, you’re showing love and making a sacrifice of your time and energy.
In this article, we’ll explore the biblical roots of intercession, why it matters, how to pray effectively, and what misconceptions to avoid.
Biblical foundations of intercessory prayer
The practice of intercessory prayer is thoroughly rooted in the Bible. Both the Old and New Testaments offer examples of individuals who pleaded with God on behalf of others.
Old Testament examples
- Moses: When the Israelites worshipped a golden calf, Moses prayed for them, preventing God from unleashing his anger on them (Exodus 32:11-14). This wasn’t a one-off event either. Moses repeatedly interceded for the Israelites.
- Daniel: Daniel confessed the sins of his people and begged God for mercy (Daniel 9).
- Hezekiah: Hezekiah prayed for deliverance from the Assyrians (2 Kings 19).
- Nehemiah: Nehemiah prayed for the restoration of Jerusalem (Nehemiah 1).
New Testament examples
- Jesus: Jesus prayed for his disciples (John 17). Hebrews 7:25 states that He “is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them” (NIV).
- Paul: Paul consistently prayed for the churches he founded (Ephesians 1:16-18). He also asked others to pray for him (Romans 15:30-32).
Theological significance of intercession
Intercession and God’s Sovereignty
Some people wonder if intercessory prayer can actually change God’s mind. Most theologians agree that it doesn’t. Instead, it changes us. It aligns our hearts with God’s will. We acknowledge that God is in control, but we also accept the invitation to be partners with Him in His work.
The Role of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in intercession. Romans 8:26-27 says that the Spirit helps us pray according to God’s will. The Spirit also empowers us with spiritual gifts that help us in our intercession.
Intercession as an Act of Love
Intercession is a vital part of the church because we’re called to love one another. As John 15:13 says, loving each other means laying down our lives. We lay down our lives in different ways as we serve God and serve people. One of the most important ways we serve is through prayer.
Principles of effective intercession
If you feel called to intercessory prayer, here are some principles that may help you grow in your ability to stand in the gap for others.
Cultivating a relationship with God
Intercessory prayer is based on a relationship with God. The stronger your relationship, the more effective your prayers will be.
Spending Time in His Presence
To grow closer to God, set aside time for prayer and meditation. The more time you spend in God’s presence, the deeper your connection with Him will become.
Studying Scripture
The Bible is full of guidance and wisdom that can inform your prayers. Dig into the scriptures and use them to guide your intercessory prayers.
Praying with Faith and Boldness
Praying with faith and boldness means believing in God’s power and having the confidence that He hears and answers prayers.
Believing in God’s Power
Believe that God is able to do what you ask. Have confidence that He is listening and will answer according to His will.
Praying Specifically and Boldly
Don’t be afraid to ask for specific needs and outcomes. Be bold in your requests, trusting that God can handle anything.
Listening to God’s Guidance
Effective intercession also involves listening to God’s guidance and being attentive to the Holy Spirit’s promptings.
Asking and Waiting
When you pray, ask for God’s guidance and then wait for His response. Be open to hearing from Him through various means, such as scripture, dreams, or other people.
Pursuing Spiritual Gifts
Seek to develop spiritual gifts such as prophecy, words of knowledge, tongues, and discernment. Discernment, in particular, can help you understand the needs of others and how to pray for them effectively.
Practical steps for intercessory prayer
If you’re interested in adding intercessory prayer to your daily or weekly spiritual practices, here are a few ideas to help you get started.
Identifying needs and praying specifically
- Keep a prayer list. Write down people’s names and the needs you know about, and then pray for them on a regular schedule. Focus on specific situations and specific people.
- Gather information. Ask people how you can pray for them. Stay aware of current events and the needs that exist in your community and around the world.
Creating a conducive prayer environment
- Find a quiet place. Choose a spot where you can focus and won’t be distracted.
- Use visual aids. When you pray, picture the people you’re praying for, or keep a photo of them nearby.
Praying with others
- Join a prayer group. Pray with others, either in person or online. Participate in group prayer when you can.
- Pray in specific locations. Consider praying in places connected to the people you’re praying for, or in places that have special meaning to you.
Combining prayer with action
- Fast and do penance. Consider giving up something you enjoy, or performing a penance, as you pray for others.
- Pray as you plan. Ask for God’s guidance as you plan your day, your week, and your life.
In addition to making time for prayer, look for ways to combine prayer with acts of service and compassion.
Overcoming Obstacles to Intercessory Prayer
It can be hard to practice intercessory prayer regularly. Here are some common obstacles and how to overcome them:
- Discouragement and Doubt: It’s easy to feel like your prayers aren’t being heard. When you feel that way, remember that God does hear you. Fight feelings of doubt with faith, and trust in God’s promises.
- Lack of Time: Life gets busy! Intentionally prioritize prayer and make it part of your daily routine. Try to integrate prayer into everyday tasks.
- Feeling Inadequate: Intercessory prayer can feel like a huge responsibility. Remember that this is God’s work, not yours. Rely on the Holy Spirit to guide you and empower your prayers.
- Lack of Humility: Approach God with a humble heart. Recognize your dependence on Him and His power.
Conclusion
Intercessory prayer is more than just a nice idea. It’s a vital practice that’s rooted in the Bible and empowered by the Holy Spirit. When we pray for others, we’re acting out of love, partnering with God, and unleashing a powerful force for change in the world.
I encourage you to embrace intercessory prayer as a way to connect more deeply with God and to impact the lives of the people around you. Even when you don’t see immediate results, you can trust that God has a plan.
Ultimately, intercession is a dynamic adventure with the Holy Spirit, and it often involves the use of spiritual gifts. It’s a transformative experience, not only for the people you’re praying for, but also for you as the intercessor.