Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. — 1 Timothy 2:1-2 (NKJV)
Over the years, I have had the opportunity to lead several prayer services. One thing I’ve noticed is that people often prefer to pray only for themselves. Whenever you raise prayer points for the nations, those in authority, or a specific group of people, they don’t take it as seriously. They will pray, but they are rarely as fervent during these segments as they are when a prayer point concerns their personal lives. Often, the only time they pray for others is when these specific points are raised in church.
When they get home, they only pray about things concerning themselves and their families, week in and week out. This kind of prayer pattern can go on for months. While it’s good that they are praying at least, this pattern is inherently selfish and unbalanced. It is a one-sided approach that will ultimately hinder your spiritual growth. When you only pray for yourself, you miss out on the distinct rewards of praying for others.
Engaging in intercessory prayer brings a unique reward. This reward will never come to you—no matter how many years you’ve been a Christian or how spiritual you consider yourself—as long as you fail to lift others up in prayer. As you journey in your Christian walk, I encourage you to bring balance to your prayer life by taking time to pray for others. In our opening text, Paul the Apostle reminds us:
Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. — 1 Timothy 2:1-2 (NKJV)
Did you see that? This shows us that we are obligated to pray for others. And when you do, your labor of love will certainly be rewarded, for it is written:
God is always fair. He will remember how you helped his people in the past and how you are still helping them. You belong to God, and he won’t forget the love you have shown his people. — Hebrews 6:10 (CEV)
So, get to work and begin interceding for other people today. Interestingly, when you commit to this, God Himself will begin to show you the specific people and situations you should pray for. As you do, the rewards of intercession will begin to manifest in your life in grand style. Hallelujah!
Today’s Rhema
When you spend time and energy to pray for others, the rewards of intercession mantle your life!
Confession for the Day
By the mercies of God, I have received a new understanding regarding intercession. I declare today that the grace to intercede daily is mightily at work in me, and as I intercede, I receive strength to intercede more in the name of Jesus. Amen!
