“In intercessory prayer, one seldom ends where one began.” -Douglas V. Steere, 1901-1995, American Theologian, Quaker ecumenist

“..as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many.”  (2 Cor. 1:11).

Intercessory prayer is part of Christian devotion. Early believers blessed persons and churches, and they themselves received graces from God through the prayers of others. 

Imagine intercession as a Come-Along, a manual winch with a ratchet control. Just as a Come Along is used to pull heavy objects that are too much for us to handle alone, intercession is the ‘winch’ that helps us move the ‘heavy objects’ in our lives, be it challenges, burdens, or even the hearts of others. 

You pray to the Holy for a beloved or neighbor, and God often moves you, and the one prayed for. Have you ever considered yourself heavy and needing to be gently pulled along in a ratcheting motion? 

When one habituates the heart to holy intercession for someone, particularly an opponent, it becomes incapable of feelings of resentment and instinctively delights in happiness for all. Nothing makes a person love someone as much as praying for them. Make a habit of praying with whom your life has fallen alongside. 

Prayer: 

Heavenly Father, I lift up those who are facing challenges and trials. Grant them perseverance through their circumstances. Help them trust in you and rely on your power and grace. May they not grow weary or lose hope but renew their strength in You. May they overcome every obstacle by your Spirit. Amen (based on 2 Cor. 1:3-4) 

2 Corinthians 1:3-4 The Message 

All praise to the God and Father of our Master, Jesus the Messiah! Father of all mercy! God of all healing counsel!

 He comes alongside us when we go through hard times, and before you know it, he brings us alongside someone else who is going through hard times so that we can be there for that person just as God was there for us.