When it comes to prayer, we often think of it as a time to build our personal relationship with God. And while that is a key component of prayer, it is not the only purpose. Prayer can also be a powerful tool for interceding on behalf of others.
Intercessory prayer is when we pray on behalf of someone else. It brings someone else’s needs before God and asks Him to move on their behalf.
And while we may not always feel called to this type of prayer, the Bible does tell us that we are all called to be intercessors.
First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people. – 1 Timothy 2
So how do we pray for others? Here are four tips to get you started, with intercessory prayer examples included below.
1. Pray According to God’s Will
This may seem like an obvious place to start, but it is crucial. We must remember that, ultimately, it is God’s will that we seek, not our own. So, before we start praying for someone, we need to ask God for the wisdom to know His will.
A couple of ways that you can know if you’re praying according to God’s will is if you are (1) praying for things that the Bible commands; for example, we are told to pray for our enemies (Matthew 5:44) or (2) that you are praying with the right motivation; as God does not bless selfish motives (James 4:3).
As long as we seek to walk in the Spirit and not in the flesh, we can be assured that the Holy Spirit will guide our prayers in perfect timing and in accord with God’s desires.
Heavenly Father,
Please help me to do your will in all things. Please help me to be patient and to trust in you, even when I do not understand your plan. Guide me in the right direction and help me to be a good example for others. In Jesus’ (Yahusha’s) name, Amen.
2. Pray in Faith
Another important thing to remember is that we need to pray in faith.
This means we don’t need to have all the answers or know exactly what God will do. To pray in faith means we trust God and believe that He is able to do what we are asking (James 1:6).
Heavenly Father,
I come to you today with a humble heart. I admit that I sometimes have trouble trusting in you, especially when things are tough. But I thank you for always being there for me, even when I don’t deserve it.
I pray that you will help me to have faith in you, even when things are tough. Help me trust that you have a plan for me and are always working for my good. Thank you for your never-ending love and care for me. In Jesus’ (Yahusha’s) name, Amen.
3. Pray with Humility
When we come before God on behalf of someone else, it is important that we do so with humility.
We need to remember that it is only by His grace and power that anything gets accomplished (Ephesians 3:7). So, as you pray, ask God to give you a heart of humility and thank Him in advance for how He is going to move.
Heavenly Father,
I pray for humility that I may be willing to put my desires aside and seek to do your will. May I be content with what you have given me and not be tempted to think too highly of myself.
Help me to remember that I am nothing without You and that all good things come from You. I give you thanks for your abundant mercy and grace. In Jesus’ (Yahusha’s) name, Amen.
4. Pray Persistently
Finally, when it comes to intercessory prayer, persistence is key. Just because we don’t see results right away does not mean that God isn’t working.
He may be working in ways that we can’t see or understand (Proverbs 3:5-6). So, don’t give up. Continue praying until you see God move or He gives you peace about moving on.
Heavenly Father,
Thank you for your guidance and wisdom as I pray for others. I ask that you give me the persistence to continue praying for them, even when it feels like my prayers aren’t being heard. Help me to remain steadfast in my faith, and to be patient as I wait for your answer. In Jesus’ (Yahusha’s) name, Amen.
Four Power Intercessory Prayer Examples
Now that you’ve taken the steps to ensure that you are praying according to God’s will, below are four power intercessory prayers for you to use. Edit these prayers to fit your specific prayer needs.
Intercessory Prayer 1:
Heavenly Father,
I come before you today to pray for ___. I ask that you would touch their hearts and bring Your healing presence into their lives. I pray that You would open the door for them to come to know You as their Savior and that they would be drawn into a closer relationship with You.
Lord, I also pray for their loved ones. I ask that You would protect them and keep them safe. I pray that they would be a source of strength and comfort to them.
Finally, Lord, I ask that You would use ___ situation to glorify Yourself. I know that You are able to do far more than I could ever ask or imagine, and I trust in Your goodness and faithfulness. In Jesus’ (Yahusha’s) name, Amen.
Intercessory Prayer 2:
Heavenly Father,
I come to you today asking that you would intervene in the lives of ___. I ask that you would comfort them, encourage them, and give them strength in times of need.
Lord, I know that you are a God who hears prayer and I thank you for always being willing to listen. I pray that you would pour out your blessings on ___ and that they would know your love and care for them. In Jesus’ (Yahusha’s) name, Amen.
Intercessory Prayer 3:
Heavenly Father,
I come before you today to pray for those who are in need. I ask that you lift up those who are suffering, those who are struggling, and those who are in pain. I ask for your healing touch to comfort them and bring them peace.
I pray for your guidance and your strength for those who are facing difficult times. May they find comfort in your love and may they be reassured of your presence in their lives.
I pray for all those who are hurting, including (list names or groups here). Lord, please hear my prayers on their behalf and grant them your healing touch. In Jesus’ (Yahusha’s) name, Amen.
Intercessory Prayer 4:
Heavenly Father,
Lord, we come before You today asking for Your help. We need Your intervention in the lives of those who are suffering. Please heal their hearts and minds, and give them the strength to carry on.
We also pray for those who are fighting illnesses. Lord, we know that You are the Great Physician and that You can heal any ailment. We ask that You would touch their bodies and heal them completely.
We pray for all who are struggling with addictions. Lord, please help them to overcome their addictions and to find freedom in Your love.
And finally, we pray for the people of our world who are in need of Your love and compassion. Lord, we ask that You would show them Your mercy and grace.
We pray that they would come to know Jesus (Yahusha) as their personal Savior and that they would be transformed by the power of Your love. In Jesus’ (Yahusha’s) name, Amen.
Final Words on Intercessory Prayer
Intercessory prayer is a powerful weapon in the spiritual arsenal of every believer.
By coming before God on behalf of others, we can see Him work in mighty ways—ways that would not be possible if we were not faithful intercessors.
So don’t underestimate the power of prayer! The next time you feel called to pray for someone, remember these tips and watch as God moves in ways you could never have imagined.
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