Interceding for others in prayer is a privilege the Lord gives every believer. Sometimes, we may not have thought of someone for a long time, but then the Lord reminds us to pray for them. A few months ago, my wife and I were on a trip, and a friend called us after we returned because the Holy Spirit had prompted her to intercede for us in prayer. Only the Lord knows what we avoided because someone was interceding in prayer.
Galatians 6:2Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ.[1] When we pray for one another, it is a powerful way for us to help carry the burdens of others. When we take another person’s hand and pray for them, it is a blessing for both the one praying and the receiver.
Prayer Helps Us Achieve the Calling the Lord Gives Us
The Apostle Paul loved the Thessalonians and prayed for them often so they could fulfill God’s plans for their lives. 2 Thessalonians 1:11 So we keep on praying for you, asking our God to enable you to live a life worthy of his call. May he give you the power to accomplish all the good things your faith prompts you to do. 12 Then the name of our Lord Jesus will be honored because of the way you live, and you will be honored along with him. This is all made possible because of the grace of our God and Lord, Jesus Christ. [2]
Paul’s prayers for the Thessalonians addressed key areas that would help them make a difference in their society. The Lord is always at work around believers and engages others in the process. God had a great calling for the Thessalonians, and Paul was an instrument in the Lord’s hand to make a difference in the spiritual realm.
Prayer Brings Us Together
Many people feel isolated today, and when we pray over someone, something changes in our spiritual relationship. When we share our pain, and someone prays for us, it seems to lift our burden even if our circumstances remain the same. Praying for our spouse, child, or friend helps us to see them the way the Lord sees them. My wife and I have prayed together for many years, and it is a powerful gift that builds up a marriage.
When we pray for friends, it is a powerful way to share the burdens of life that discourage us and shows us we are not meant to carry such a load on our own. When we are hurting, there is nothing like someone praying with us that lifts our spirits and changes our perspective. As we pray for one another, our spiritual muscles build up to fulfill the Lord’s calling on our lives. The Lord hears our prayers, no matter how old or young we are, that make a difference in the lives of others.
To learn more about interceding for others, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/live-encouraged
[1] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation (Ga 6:2). Tyndale House Publishers.
[2] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation (2 Th 1:11–12). Tyndale House Publishers.