Intercessory prayer is where we pray on behalf of someone else. The Bible calls us to pray for all of God’s people (Ephesians 6:18), to pray for each other to be healed (James 5:16), and to even pray for our enemies (Matthew 5:44). Romans 8:34 says, “Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us.” (Romans 8:34 ESV)
Jesus Christ is interceding for us to God, which means He’s praying to God on our behalf, and that is what intercessory prayer is. One thing to keep in mind about intercessory prayer is that it’s something you want to be intentional about. The other day I had a friend who texted me to say I was on her prayer calendar for that day and asked how she might pray for me. It was so thoughtful and intentional. So let me ask you, who can you be praying for today?
Pray: Heavenly Father, thank You for the privilege of interceding for others in prayer. Help us to be intentional and thoughtful as we lift up those in need, following the example of Jesus. Strengthen our faith as we see Your hand at work in their lives. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Reflect: How can you be more intentional about praying for others regularly? Who can you pray for today?