How Intercessory Prayer Works
Paul (in speaking about the Old Testament stories) said, “These things happened to them as examples for us. They were written down to warn us who live at the end of the age.” (1 Corinthians 10:11 NLT)
For how intercessory prayer works, read Exodus 17:10ff. In Exodus 17:10 and following, the Israelites were in a battle with the Amalekites. As long as Moses held his staff in the air, the Israelites were winning, but when he began to tire and drop his arms, they began to lose. Then, Aaron and Hur came alongside of Moses and held his arms up until the battle is won.
Are you tired and weary in a battle you are fighting? Imagine the intercessory prayer of others holding your arms aloft during the struggle. There was a time in my life where I literally remember saying (as I drove down the interstate – I still remember the spot) “The only thing that keeps me going is knowing that Ruby and Georgia are praying for me…”
Nearly every Sunday these two women would come up to me at church and ask how it was going, and say, “I just wanted to know how you were doing… I’m praying for you, you know.” That made all the difference!
Do you need your arms held up today? Or, whose arms can you hold up today?
Paul also said (2 Corinthians 1:4) “He [God] comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.” (NLT)
Have you been comforted? Who can you comfort today?
Do you need comfort? Ask someone to come alongside of you and pray for/with you today. DO NOT try to do it alone!
Prayer:
Father, I lift up those who are seriously struggling today. I picture many of them in my mind and I see their battle weary faces. May these prayers give them comfort and strength to face the battle this day. God, I have been so comforted and strengthened by the prayers of others, may I never fail to be willing to come alongside others and comfort them with that same comfort. Thank You for sending us the Comforter, Your Holy Spirit, to be with us – in us, and thank You for allowing us to participate in Your work. May everything we do bring You glory – in Jesus’ Name – Amen
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