Intercessory prayer is a powerful and transformative practice in the life of a believer. This is why we ask you to pray for us as we pray for you. Intercessory prayer involves praying on behalf of others, standing in the gap to seek God’s intervention, healing, and blessings for them. The Bible provides a clear definition and numerous examples of intercessory prayer, highlighting its significance and impact. In this article, we delve into the biblical definition of intercessory prayer, how it works and the impact it makes in the lives of those we pray for.
What is Intercessory Prayer?
Intercessory prayer is not a prayer of praise, an unloading of one’s own burdens, or a “daily bread” prayer. Instead, it is a pointed, persistent prayer that intervenes on another’s behalf. It is an expression of love. Intercessory prayer releases spiritual power. The Bible defines it as the act of praying for others. James 5:16 says, “The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working],” (AMPC).” The righteousness Jesus bought for you at Calvary is more than enough to make your prayers effective. If you are believing God’s Word when you pray, then James 5:16 assures us that your prayers will release great power.
The Biblical Definition
Scripture provides the biblical definition of intercessory prayer. One prominent example is found in 1 Timothy 2:1-2, where Paul writes, “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” This passage highlights the importance of praying for others, including leaders and those in positions of authority.
How Intercessory Prayer Works
Intercessory prayer is not about getting God to follow our plan or praying what we think a person needs or should be doing. Intercessory prayer is a spiritual force that will take authority over the forces of darkness and pull-down strongholds in other’s lives.
It’s a battle against evil spiritual powers that requires courage and diligence. Paul reminds the church to “pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere” (Ephesians 6:18). This type of persistent intercessory prayer opens the door for deliverance and deeper growth in the lives of those you are praying for.
As you actively speak against the enemy’s designs, stand on the promises of God, and remind God of His Word, you thwart the enemy’s attacks. Light flows into areas that previously experienced darkness. (2 Corinthians 10:4-5). So don’t give up even when the answer is not yet visible. Follow the example of the Apostle Paul who said, “So we have not stopped praying for you since we first heard about you” (Colossians 1:9).
One word of caution: As you pray for others, it’s important to not take on the burden of the problem yourself, as that can be spiritually damaging. In the book of Proverbs, Solomon cautions believers to guard our hearts above all else (Proverbs 4:23). So be vigilant to intercede for the rebellious, the addicted and the hurting, but guard your own heart against undue emotional strain and burdens.
The Power of Praying in the Spirit
Praying in tongues is a valuable tool for praying and believing for those who are needing someone to stand in the gap for them in intercession. When you pray in other tongues it allows you to operate in the realm of the spirit. The Holy Spirit understands what others need when you do not. When you pray in tongues, you pray beyond your own limited knowledge. You have moved beyond the natural into the spirit. You must yield to it as an act of your will.
As you spend time praying in other tongues for someone, you give the Holy Spirit opportunity to pray the perfect will of God for their life. Take a look at Romans 8:26-28:
“Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God.” (NKJ)
The original Greek word for “helps” in this passage literally means that when we pray in the Spirit, He “takes hold together” with us as we co-operate with Him in prayer. We are praying out His perfect wisdom and His perfect will, and opening the door for the Holy Spirit to move in that person’s life.
The Impact of Intercessory Prayer
Intercessory prayer has a profound impact on the lives of those who pray and those who are prayed for. It can bring healing, revelation, guidance, protection, salvation, freedom and provision As believers, we are called to lift up one another in prayer, standing in the gap and seeking God’s intervention on behalf of others. Intercessory prayer acts as an expression of love and faith, demonstrating our trust in God’s power and His willingness to answer our prayers.
A Powerful Tool
Intercessory prayer is a vital practice for every believer. It is a powerful tool that can change circumstances, bring healing, and foster spiritual growth. By engaging in intercessory prayer, we can experience the transformative power of God in our lives and the lives of others. Let us commit to praying for one another, confident that our prayers are heard and answered by a loving and powerful God.
