Intercessory Prayer: Standing in the Gap

Hello! Let’s learn about intercessory prayer. This is when we pray to God on behalf of other people. We’ll use simple examples and stories to understand the role and importance of intercession, and look at what the Bible says about it.

Praying for Others

1. What is Intercessory Prayer? Intercessory prayer is when we pray to God, asking Him to help someone else. It’s like being a bridge between God and the person we’re praying for. Example: Imagine your friend is sick. You can pray to God, “Please help my friend feel better soon.” You are interceding for your friend.
2. Jesus Prays for Us Story: Jesus prays for all of us. He prayed for His disciples and everyone who would believe in Him. He asked God to protect them and keep them united. Scriptural Reference: “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message.” – John 17:20 Example: It’s like a teacher asking for the principal to help all the students. Jesus is asking God to help us.

The Role and Importance of Intercession

1. Helping Others through Prayer Example: Think of intercessory prayer like being a superhero. You’re asking God to help someone who needs it, like asking God to help your family, friends, or even people you don’t know. Scriptural Reference: “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people.” – 1 Timothy 2:1 Story: The early church prayed for each other a lot. When Peter was in prison, the church prayed for him, and God sent an angel to free him. Their prayers made a big difference! Scriptural Reference: “So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him.” – Acts 12:5
2. Standing in the Gap Story: In the Old Testament, Moses often prayed for the Israelites when they made mistakes. He asked God to forgive them and give them another chance. God listened to Moses and helped the Israelites. Scriptural Reference: “But now, please forgive their sin—but if not, then blot me out of the book you have written.” – Exodus 32:32 Example: It’s like when your brother or sister is in trouble and you ask your parents to forgive them. Moses was doing something similar for the Israelites.
3. Bringing God’s Blessings to Others Story: Job, in the Bible, prayed for his friends even after they had been unkind to him. Because of Job’s prayers, God blessed his friends and also restored everything Job had lost. Scriptural Reference: “After Job had prayed for his friends, the Lord restored his fortunes and gave him twice as much as he had before.” – Job 42:10 Example: Think about sharing your favorite toy with a friend who doesn’t have one. Job’s prayers brought blessings to his friends and to himself.

Summary

Intercessory prayer is praying for others, asking God to help them. It’s important because it shows love and care for others. Jesus prays for us, and we can follow His example by praying for our family, friends, and even people we don’t know. Just like Moses, the early church, and Job, our prayers can make a big difference in people’s lives. So, remember to pray for others and trust that God hears and answers your prayers.