We are called to intercede. We stand before God, the Creator Sustainer on behalf of others. We boldly approach His throne of grace to find mercy and grace in time of need, whether ours or others. 2 Corinthians 1:8 says, “For we do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, of our trouble which came to us in Asia: that we were burdened beyond measure, above strength, so that we despaired even of life.” Look at verse 11. It says, “You also helping together in prayer for us, that thanks may be given by many persons on our behalf for the gift granted to us through many.”

Romans 15:30 says, “Now I beg you, brethren, through the Lord Jesus Christ, and through the love of the Spirit, that you strive together with me in prayer to God for me.” Amplified says, “…to unite with me in earnest wrestling in prayer in my behalf.”

Our trials are not a solo, unique, only-me-type hardship. The body of Christ is under fire. We stand in the gap for others in their need, as others stand in the gap for us in our need. It is a circular provision ordained by the Lord.

Ephesians 1:18 says, “Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints.” The Lord Himself intercedes for us. He is our excellent example. Romans 8:34 says, “Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us.”

Luke 4:18 Amplified says, “…to send forth as delivered those who are oppressed (who are downtrodden, bruised, crushed, and broken down by calamity).” Do you fit this category? Then ask some folks you know to intercede for you. They will stand in the gap before our Merciful and Gracious Lord on your behalf. Paul said that they were helped through prayer as they endured their trouble in Asia.

1 Peter 4:19 says, “Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator.” Here is God’s eternal purpose for His church. The hard trials that we go through are a testimony of God’s wisdom. Ephesians 3:10 says, “To the intent that now the manifold wisdom of God might be made know by the church to the principalities and powers in the heavenly places.”

Jesus told Peter that satan wanted to sift him. Luke 22:32 says, “But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.” Right after this, Peter denied the Lord three times. 1 & 2 Peter were written by that beloved apostle. 1 Peter 5:10 says, “But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you.”

Concerted prayer is like an ambush against the enemy. It is a secret effective weapon that breaks through all opposing forces. There is no other ministry like it. What a privilege to stand in the gap before God on behalf of others.