Several years ago I had the opportunity to talk with a respected intercessor. I asked her what piece of advice she would give regarding prayer. Her response: “intercede for people out of the desire in your heart.” Intercession certainly comes easier for some than others. I’m not going to attempt to explain why. It has never been a natural, or easy, practice for me. However, the thought of praying out of the desires in my heart makes so much sense and makes intercession so much more natural. How often to you think about your close friends and family? Take that opportunity to pray for them (might only take few seconds, or you might find you have more to say than you thought).
For your consideration: Ezekiel 22, Isaiah 53:12, Hebrews 7:25, Romans 8:34
Challenge: Pick a favorite spot (for example: next to the fireplace, front porch swing, coffee shop, the park). Go to that place and spend 15-20 minutes in silence. During that silence spend the first 10 minutes praying on behalf of someone that you love – the first person who comes to mind. Then spend some time praying for someone who is really hurting over something – the first person who comes to mind. Then, if you wish, spend a few minutes interceding for some of the people that you see around you.
1 comments:
I think that is a beautiful thought...interceding out of the desires in our heart. I often feel guilty when I don't intercede enough for certain things. It is a good reminder that the things my heart is passionate about or the things my thoughts turn to are good indicators of what I am being called to pray for. Freedom to pray...woot woot!
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