Intercessory prayer meaning

   

1. Meaning of Intercessory prayer

      Intercessory prayer is a crucial part of the Christian faith, where believers pray on behalf of others. It is an act of standing in the gap for individuals, communities, or even nations, seeking God’s intervention, mercy, and blessings. The Bible is filled with examples of intercessory prayer, showing its power, importance, and effectiveness. 

      Intercessory prayer is derived from the word "intercede," meaning to plead or mediate on behalf of another. In a spiritual sense, it means seeking God’s intervention for others. Unlike personal prayers, which focus on one's own needs, intercessory prayer is selfless and driven by love and concern for others.

      The Bible emphasizes intercession as a key responsibility of believers. 1 Timothy 2:1 says, "I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for all people."

      This highlights that intercession is not just an option but a vital part of a believer’s prayer life.

2. Biblical Examples of Intercessory Prayer

      The Bible contains many instances where godly individuals interceded for others. These examples reveal how intercession can bring divine intervention and change the course of history.

A. Abraham Interceding for Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 18:22-33)

      Abraham stood before God and pleaded for the city of Sodom, asking God to spare it if righteous people were found. Although the city was ultimately destroyed, this passage demonstrates God’s willingness to listen to intercessory prayer. It also shows Abraham’s deep concern for others, including those who were not righteous.

B. Moses Praying for the Israelites (Exodus 32:11-14, Numbers 14:11-20)

      Moses interceded multiple times for the Israelites when they sinned against God. In Exodus 32, after the Israelites worshiped the golden calf, God intended to destroy them, but Moses pleaded for mercy. His intercession changed the outcome, and God relented from bringing total destruction.

C. Samuel’s Intercession for Israel (1 Samuel 7:5-9, 12:23)

      Samuel was a prophet who consistently prayed for Israel. In 1 Samuel 12:23, he said,

"As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by failing to pray for you."

      This shows that intercession is not just an act of kindness but a spiritual duty.

D. Jesus’ High Priestly Prayer (John 17:6-26)

      Jesus Himself engaged in intercessory prayer. In John 17, He prayed for His disciples and all future believers, asking God to protect, sanctify, and unite them. Jesus continues to intercede for believers today, as seen in Romans 8:34: "Christ Jesus... is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us."

E. The Early Church’s Prayer for Others (Acts 12:5, James 5:16)

      The early church practiced intercession as a way to support each other spiritually. In Acts 12:5, when Peter was in prison, "The church was earnestly praying to God for him."

      This resulted in Peter’s miraculous release. James 5:16 also encourages believers to intercede, stating: "Pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective."

3. The Purpose of Intercessory Prayer

      Intercessory prayer serves multiple purposes in the spiritual life of believers and the world:

A. Seeking God’s Mercy and Forgiveness

      When people sin, intercessory prayer can bring God's mercy. Moses, Samuel, and others in the Bible prayed for God to forgive and restore His people.

B. Bringing Healing and Deliverance

      The Bible encourages praying for healing. James 5:14-15 states that the prayer of faith will heal the sick. Jesus also healed many because others interceded for them.

C. Protection from Evil

      Intercession can serve as spiritual protection. Jesus prayed for Peter, saying,

"Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift all of you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail." (Luke 22:31-32)

D. Strengthening the Church and Leaders

      Paul often requested prayers for strength and boldness in ministry. Ephesians 6:18-19 says, "Pray in the Spirit on all occasions... with this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. Pray also for me."

E. Revival and Spiritual Awakening

      Throughout history, great revivals have been preceded by intercessory prayer. 2 Chronicles 7:14 states: "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face... I will forgive their sin and heal their land."

4. Benefits of Intercessory Prayer

      Engaging in intercessory prayer has both spiritual and practical benefits:

● Deepens our relationship with God – It draws us closer to God as we align our hearts with His will.

● Develops selflessness – Praying for others helps us grow in compassion.

● Brings supernatural breakthroughs – Many miracles in the Bible happened because of intercession.

● Strengthens our faith – Seeing answered prayers builds confidence in God.

● Unites believers – Praying for one another fosters unity in the body of Christ.

5. How to Engage in Effective Intercessory Prayer

A. Pray with a Clean Heart

      Sin can hinder prayers. Psalm 66:18 says,

"If I had cherished sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened."

      Confessing and repenting before interceding is important.

B. Pray According to God’s Will

      Intercession should align with God’s Word. 1 John 5:14 states, "If we ask anything according to His will, He hears us."

C. Be Persistent

      Intercessory prayer requires persistence. Jesus taught about persistence in the parable of the persistent widow (Luke 18:1-8).

D. Use Scripture in Prayer

      Praying Scripture strengthens intercession. For example, praying Psalm 91 for protection over others.

E. Fast and Pray

      Fasting intensifies prayer. Matthew 17:21 indicates that some breakthroughs require prayer and fasting.

F. Listen to the Holy Spirit

      The Holy Spirit guides effective intercession. Romans 8:26 says, "The Spirit helps us in our weakness... the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans."

      Intercessory prayer is a powerful and essential practice for every believer. The Bible provides numerous examples, showing its importance in seeking God's mercy, healing, and divine intervention. By engaging in intercessory prayer with faith, persistence, and alignment with God's will, believers can bring transformation in their lives and others.

      As followers of Christ, we are called to stand in the gap, just as Abraham, Moses, and Jesus did. Through intercession, we partner with God in fulfilling His purposes on earth.