Intercessory Prayer
And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. Ephesians 6:19, 20
Read Ephesians 6:10-20
The apostle Paul closes his discussion about putting on the whole armour of God with the request to remember him in prayer. Intercessory prayer is needed for all God’s people—for those who serve the Lord and are fighting the fight of faith. This truth confronts us with another aspect of the Christian battle that we must not forget: we are not in the fight of faith alone. The saints stand together (Eph. 3). Be strong in the Lord, gathering together, and praying for one another.
Paul’s desire for intercessory prayer reveals that he did not view himself as an exception to the rule. As an apostle, he did not regard himself above the common believer. Intercessory prayer can never be esteemed too highly. Perhaps you have experienced the importance of intercessory prayer during a critical time in your life. Do not forget to pray for others in their need as well. Our prayers cannot change peoples’ lives, but the one true God we pray to delights to answer prayer; He does the work!
Do you have colleagues or friends who are confronted with the cunning attacks and lies of the evil one? Are there some who are addicted to their lusts? Lift them up in prayer before the throne of God. Paul did not think himself too great to ask for intercessory prayer. Should we not be willing to ask for the prayers of others in times of difficulty? Prayer, and especially communal prayer, is a powerful weapon in the spiritual fight of faith!
Thought: The weakness of the Christian church is often due to the lack of intercessory prayer.
Psalter 387:1,3,5 (based on Psalm 142) To God my earnest voice I raise, To God my voice imploring prays; Before His face my grief I show And tell my trouble and my woe. All unprotected, lo, I stand, No friendly guardian at my hand, No place of flight or refuge near, And none to whom my soul is dear. Be Thou my help when troubles throng, For I am weak and foes are strong; My captive soul from prison bring, And thankful praises I will sing.