The Call To Intercession
In a world filled with distractions, and busyness, the role of intercessors often goes unnoticed. Yet, intercessors play a crucial and timeless role in connecting humanity with the divine. Their purpose transcends the boundaries of religion, culture, and time, as they bridge the gap between the earthly and the heavenly. In this blog, we will explore the need for intercessors, drawing inspiration from the Bible to understand their significance in our lives.
The Biblical Foundation of Intercession
Intercession, in the context of prayer, is a practice deeply rooted in the Bible. It involves standing in the gap on behalf of others, bringing their needs, concerns, and aspirations before God. The Bible is replete with examples of intercession, starting with Abraham's plea for Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 18:23-33) and continuing through the prayers of Moses, Samuel, and many others.
One of the most poignant examples of intercession can be found in the New Testament with the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. Jesus, the ultimate Intercessor, not only taught us to pray but also exemplified this vital role. He prayed for his disciples (John 17:6-26) and, most notably, interceded for all believers when he offered himself as a sacrifice for our sins (Hebrews 7:25).
The Need for Intercessors Today
1. **Spiritual Warfare:** The world is often described as a battleground of spiritual warfare, where unseen forces of good and evil contend for influence. Intercessors serve as spiritual warriors, engaging in prayer to protect and shield those they intercede for.
2. **Compassion and Empathy:** Intercessors possess a unique ability to empathize with others' pain and suffering. This compassion drives them to intercede fervently on behalf of those in need, whether it's for physical healing, emotional restoration, or spiritual growth.
3. **Unity and Reconciliation:** In a world fractured by division, intercessors play a role in bringing people together. They pray for unity, reconciliation, and peace, mirroring Jesus' desire for believers to be one (John 17:21).
4. **Transformation:** Intercessory prayer has the power to bring about transformation, not only in individual lives but also in communities and nations. It can lead to repentance, revival, and societal change.
The Call to Intercession
Intercession is not limited to a select few with a special gift; it is a call to every believer. The Apostle Paul encourages us to pray for all people, making intercession a universal responsibility (1 Timothy 2:1-4). However, some individuals are uniquely gifted and called to dedicate their lives to intercession, just as others are called to preaching or teaching.
To answer the call to intercession, one must:
1. **Cultivate a Prayerful Lifestyle:** Intercessors should be people of prayer, developing a deep, consistent communion with God.
2. **Empathize and Advocate:** Develop a heart that empathizes with the pain and needs of others. Advocate for them through prayer.
3. **Study the Word:** A solid foundation in God's Word provides insight and wisdom for effective intercession.
4. **Stay Persistent:** Intercession often requires persistence. Keep praying, even when answers seem delayed.
Conclusion
In a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, intercessors serve as conduits of hope, healing, and divine intervention. Their role is not only biblically sound but also profoundly relevant today. By understanding the need for intercessors and embracing the call to intercession ourselves, we can participate in God's redemptive work, making a tangible difference in the lives of those we pray for and in the world around us.