Gracepoint Church, Peabody
God has granted us a power that can affect others. It’s a power we barely understand. And, sadly, it’s a power — and privilege — many believers seldom use.
I’m referring to intercession. In a general sense it means to speak on someone else’s behalf. There are occasions when certain individuals or groups cannot defend themselves. They need someone to plead their case because of an injustice that is falling upon them.
Then there’s the type of intercession that drives Christians to pray for other people.
In the book of Esther, we see incredible expressions of both kinds of intercession. Mordicai appeals to Queen Esther, and Queen Esther goes before the King (after both have gone before God). Both are interceding for the Jewish people.
God listens to our pleas for hurting people. Our prayers for others really can make a difference! Intercession is a privilege because God has chosen to use us in this way. He didn’t have to. He knows all needs without us informing Him. But when we turn our attention from our needs to the needs of others, we are showing the heart of selflessness and love.
Who are you interceding for today?