We are called to serve others, but through physical service we realize that the real needs of others are beyond our capacity to give, so we must turn to God in prayer. We are made to be a kingdom and priests (Rev. 1:6), and Intercessory Prayer is part of our priestly ministry. Of ourselves, we have no place in the heavenly court, but through Christ we are given the authority of his name, so that we may approach God in freedom and with confidence (Eph. 3:12). And we have the beautiful promise that when we pray in Jesus' name, i.e. in accord with his nature – “if you remain in me and my words remain in you – ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you” (John 15:7). In this way, Intercessory Prayer, is learning to become an abiding branch on the Vine.
As poetic and beautiful this exchange is, the reality is that often we are discouraged when our intercessory prayers seemingly effect no change. Foster says “this is because we are entering the strange mix of divine influence and human autonomy.” God does not force men into compulsory obedience (Ps. 32:9), but Jesus did tell his disciples to pray always and not lose heart (Luke 18:1). There is a reason to persist. I believe that faithful repetition does not force God's hand, but it does grows our heart toward that person, and it stirs up the cosmos, where our struggle is located (Eph. 6:12).
A good part of this prayer, and all prayer!, is the silent listening for and inviting of the Spirit to guide the content of prayer, to bring people to your attention and, often, to intercede with sighs to deep for words (Rom. 8:26). Because the Holy Spirit relates to people differently, it is often enlightening and encouraging to pray with others. Corporate intercessory prayer, in agreement and with the support of others, is an important component of praying for others. Meetings with Christians should naturally and easily turn towards prayer.
1 Samuel 12:23: “As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by failing to pray for you. ”
The Experience
So far in this prayer blog experience, there has been a lot of inward focus in prayer. At this point, I am truly thrilled to turn that focus on others. However, ultimately, I have learned and will ever be learning – though it seems obvious – the focus of all prayer is Christ.
I have recently joined a new women's group in my church. There are only four of us, and none of us knew each other just two months ago. It can be hard for me to really open up and connect with people. But this week I focused especially on praying for each of those women, and when I saw them again, I felt closer to them, as if their lives were truly intertwined with mine. I believe the unity of the Church that Jesus, Paul, John, etc. insisted upon will only be possible when the Church prays for each other ceaselessly, in accord with the nature of Christ.
Quite timely for this topic, Osama bin Laden's death was announced this week. A year ago at a prayer conference, we were asked to pray for the salvation of a famous person, and my group chose Osama bin Laden. In praying for him that day, and on and off since, a place in my heart has grown for this man. In the face of so much celebration over his death and a mission accomplished, I truly grieved for the end of the hope that he might live a redeemed life, and I did mourned the human loss of a wicked misguided destructive man who once laid innocent in his mother's arms.
Love is the power of intercessory prayer, and love's increase is its result. Amen!
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