Biblical concepts are essential for spiritual growth and a closer relationship with God. One such concept that holds great significance in the Scriptures is “intercession”. It’s where individuals advocate on behalf of others, seeking God’s intervention and blessings. In this article, we will explore the depths of intercession, and how it impacts our relationship with God and others. Join us on this journey as we delve into the principles of effective intercession and discover its transformative power.
What is Intercession?
Intercession derives from the Latin word “intercedo” meaning “to come between”. It is the act of prayerfully advocating on behalf of another person or group. In its biblical context, intercession involves approaching God on behalf of someone else. Appealing for mercy, blessings, healing, or any specific need. This form of prayer is not merely prompted by affection or interest. But recognizes that our relationship with God is not a selfish prayer request for our own needs. And embracing the welfare of others.
The Foundation of Intercession in the Bible
Throughout the Bible, we encounter many instances of intercession. Often exemplified by influential figures like Moses and Samuel. Moses, the great prophet and leader of Israel, demonstrated his deep love for the people and his commitment to God’s plan through intercessory prayer. On several occasions, he pleaded with God to spare the rebellious Israelites from divine wrath. Displaying his selflessness and desire for their well-being.
Similarly, Samuel, known for his prophetic insights, served as a bridge between God and the people of Israel. He interceded for them during difficult times, seeking God’s guidance and favor. These patriarchal examples show us that intercession is not solely an act of personal devotion but also an expression of compassion and care for the community and the nation.
The Psalms – A Poetic Book of Intercession
Within the poetic books of the Bible, the Psalms shine as a treasure trove of intercessory prayers. These songs and hymns written by David express the heartfelt cries seeking God’s intervention in times of distress, thanksgiving, and celebration. The Psalms reveal the beauty of honest communication with God.
The Role of Intercession in the New Testament
Christ – The Ultimate Intercessor
In the New Testament, we find the embodiment of intercession in the person of Jesus Christ. As the Messiah, Savior, and Redeemer, Jesus continued to intercede for humanity. Even in His final moments on the cross when He prayed for forgiveness for those who crucified Him. His life exemplified selfless love, laying down His life for the sake of others. And His teachings emphasized the importance of loving one another.
Intercessory Prayer in the Early Christian Community
The early Christian community understood the significance of intercession as they lived in a society that often persecuted them for their faith. They relied on prayer to navigate challenges and seek breakthroughs in various situations. The New Testament emphasizes the power of prayer and how the community of believers supported one another through intercession.
Principles of Effective Intercession
1) Deepening Your Relationship with God
Effective intercession begins with a deep, personal relationship with God. It involves hearing from Him, understanding His plan, and aligning our prayers with His will. Through communion with God, we gain insight into His desires and intentions for the situations we intercede for.
2) Knowing God’s Word and Requirements
To intercede effectively, we must be familiar with the Word of God. The Bible provides us with essential principles and promises that can guide our prayers. By digging into the Scriptures, we gain wisdom and discernment to intercede with clarity and confidence.
3) Partnering with God’s Plan
Intercession is not just about asking for blessings but also aligning ourselves with God’s master plan. By praying for the advancement of His Kingdom, we actively participate in God’s divine purposes and become co-laborers in His redemptive work.
How To Use Scripture To Intercede
1) Choose a scripture that ministers to the problem of the person you are praying for.
2) Get into praise and worship before you pray, thanking God for everything he has already done.
3) Pray for the person you are interceding for to experience the scripture you are reading. For example, if you are praying for someone suffering from depression you could take Isaiah 61:2-3. Then pray, ‘I declare and decree (name of the person) will receive the oil of joy and the garment of praise. That they will be set free from depression in Jesus’ name. Thank you for my answered prayer.
The Impact of Intercession – Breakthrough and Love
Overcoming Spiritual Strongholds
Through intercession, we can experience breakthroughs in challenging situations. And witness the dismantling of spiritual strongholds. Strongholds are mental thought patterns that are so strong they resemble a fortress. An example would be thinking, ‘Nobody cares about me,’ which would root from a stronghold of rejection. As we pray fervently and persistently, God’s power transforms our minds and circumstances.
The Intercession of the Holy Spirit
In addition to Christ’s intercession, the Holy Spirit also plays a significant role in our prayers. The Holy Spirit intercedes for us with “groanings too deep for words,” bridging the gap between our hearts’ desires and God’s perfect will (Romans 8:26-27). As believers, we can take comfort in knowing that the Holy Spirit intercedes on our behalf, ensuring that our prayers align with God’s purposes. Or to pray for us when we don’t know what to pray, this happens a lot when we pray in tongues.
The Significance of Intercession
Intercession displays our love for one another and lays down our lives for our friends, just as Jesus taught us. Through intercession, we shift our focus from our individual needs and situations to selflessly praying for the needs of others. Ushering in transformative spiritual breakthroughs.
Unveiling the Spiritual Gifts
As we intercede, the gifts of the Holy Spirit play a significant role in guiding our prayers. These gifts, such as prophecy, words of knowledge, tongues, and discernment, allow us to pray with laser-like precision and divine guidance. Individuals should pursue and learn about these spiritual gifts in the context of intercession, thereby enriching their prayer lives.
The Power of Praying for Others
You could help save someone’s life by praying for that person. So many testimonies of unbelievers getting saved have been because of the intercessory prayers of their loved ones. Whether it’s a child, a neighbor, a distant or close relative, a boss or worker, or even your country. Your prayers have the power to change the lives of others for the greater good.
Intercession Benefits You
Not only does intercession benefit the person you are praying for it will also benefit you. In the book of Job, Job lost everything and still remained faithful to God, even his own friends mocked him. But it wasn’t until he repented and prayed for his friends that he then received double for all he lost.
Urgency To Save Souls
With the Rapture soon to come, it’s a crucial time to press into prayer and intercede for the lost who have no idea of the perilous times to come when the Great Tribulation hits the earth. The more people that know the truth of Jesus Christ and what’s to come and how to prepare the more souls that can be saved for the kingdom of heaven.
Prayers
Prayer For The Children:
Heavenly Father, we thank you for all that you have done for me and for the lives of those who have blessed and prayed for me when I needed help. Lord, I come to your throne room of grace and intercede for the lives of every child in the world, who are subject to abuse. I ask for you to release your warring angels from the third heavens, to fight for all the children who are being abused, set them free, and expose their abusers in Jesus’ name. Your word says you will execute righteousness and judgment for all that are oppressed. I declare and decree your righteousness and judgment will be executed for every child in the world in Jesus’ name. We cover every child, every school, and every building where there are children in the blood of Jesus. I cover every child in the world born and unborn in the blood of Jesus Christ, and I set a hedge of fire and protection around them all. I declare and decree that they will all hear and encounter the gospel of Jesus Christ and experience the healing loving power of Jesus Christ. Thank you Lord we praise you in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Prayer For Loved Ones:
Heavenly Father, we thank you for all that you have done for me. Lord, I come to your throne room of grace and intercede for the lives of (name of the person). I pray for them to have a fresh encounter with Jesus Christ and for them to come to true repentance. I pray that the eyes of their hearts will be enlightened in order that they may know the hope to which they have been called. May they be covered in the blood of Jesus Christ with a hedge of fire and protection around them in Jesus’ Name. Thank you, Lord. Amen.
Prayer For Your Country:
Heavenly Father, we thank you for all you have done for me. Lord, I come to your throne room of grace and intercede for our country. We repent for the corruption that has happened in our country, we repent for the sins and the rebellion of our country and our leaders. Bring our hearts to true repentance, I declare and decree that our leaders will all encounter Jesus Christ and will bring our country into alignment with your word. In Jesus’ name. Thank you, Lord. Amen.
Conclusion
Intercession is a sacred and powerful act of prayer and advocacy, reflecting our love for God and our fellow human beings. From the times of the patriarchs to the establishment of the priesthood, and in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ, intercession holds a profound place in the heart of God’s people.
Embrace the call to be intercessors, fervently praying for the needs of others. Seeking God’s mercy and guidance, and aligning your prayers with His will. Through intercession, we become instruments of God’s love and grace, bringing hope and healing to a broken world.
Let us, as a community of believers, unite in intercessory prayer. Confident that our petitions reach the ears of a loving and compassionate God, who delights in answering the cries of His children. May our lives be a living testimony of the power and efficacy of intercession in the life of every believer. You never know whose life you could save with your prayer.