How to Pray for Change: Biblical Insights from Intercessory
Exodus 32:14 NASB 95
Years ago, an unwittingly famous believer in the Lord penned a book in which he posed a provocative question by the very title of the book. The title was this:
“And God Changed His Mind.”
In its pages, Brother Andrew, the anonymous believer who founded “Open Doors” (the organization that smuggled Bibles into countries that banned the good book), indicated that it was biblical and proper, from time to time, to implore God to “change His mind”. He quoted, among his peers, Corrie Ten Boom, who had suffered much loss under the Nazis. She joined him in the conviction that God had so ordained creation that its destiny would shift through the prayer ministry of the church.
If some situations were awful, beyond redemption, and for some reason, existing still, he advised believers to pray for God to shift what He was doing, and alter the destiny of even nations, rulers, kings and presidents. Of course, Brother Andrew wanted the Bible to be allowed in places that killed believers who would embrace its teaching. It was clear that the reason he prayed that way was that he believed that God wanted it done.
Ten Boom and Brother Andrew both held the view that somehow, in some way that defied comprehension, God’s heart could be moved through focused intercession. Believers would be moved, and God would be moved with them, as they spoke to one another in fervent two-way communication. This is what we call “Praying in the Spirit” about some situation that needs God to intervene.
Of course, this raises the big question that makes the believer pause. If God is unchanging in His nature, how could it even be possible for God to be moved to alter any course of an action He undertook?
( Snipt from Pastor David's current writing)
Prayer Years ago, I found myself deep in an intercessory prayer that I didn't fully understand. I felt compelled to pray for those whose actions seemed contrary to God's will, sensing that their trajectory would lead to destruction. This post explores the powerful implications of intercessory prayer, providing biblical insights and actionable lessons for believers.
## Understanding Intercessory Prayer Intercessory prayer is a heartfelt plea to God on behalf of others. It's a selfless act of love, often prompted by a deep concern for individuals or communities straying from God's path. The biblical foundation for this practice can be seen in the actions of figures like Abraham and Moses, who interceded for others, showing us that prayer can indeed influence God's response.
### The Role of Abraham In the book "Daring to Draw Near" by John White, I discovered a profound example of intercessory prayer through Abraham's plea for Sodom and Gomorrah. Despite the cities' deep sinfulness, Abraham sought to change God's mind, illustrating that prayer can be an avenue for divine mercy. This teaches us that even in dire circumstances, intercession can bring hope.
### Lessons from Moses Moses' intercession after the Israelites worshiped the golden calf is another powerful example. He boldly approached God, asking for forgiveness for the people and even offering his life for theirs. This act of selflessness highlights the weight of intercessory prayer and its potential to sway God's judgment, encouraging believers to take their prayers seriously.
## The New Testament Perspective Transitioning to the New Testament, Paul's writings in Romans provide further insights into intercessory prayer. He expresses deep sorrow for his fellow Israelites, illustrating how prayer can stem from love and concern for others' salvation. Paul’s desire for the salvation of his people emphasizes the importance of praying for others, even those who may seem far from God.
### Practical Steps for Effective Intercession
1. **Identify the Need**: Begin by recognizing individuals or communities requiring prayer. What specific issues or struggles are they facing?
2. **Engage Emotionally**: Allow your heart to be burdened for these individuals. Genuine concern fuels powerful prayers.
3. **Seek God’s Will**: Pray for discernment, asking God to guide your prayers in alignment with His will.
4. **Pray Scripture**: Use biblical passages that resonate with the situation, standing on God's promises and truths.
5. **Stay Committed**: Intercession is often a long-term commitment. Keep praying, even when the situation seems unchanged.
## Conclusion Intercessory prayer is a vital practice that reflects God's heart for humanity. By understanding its biblical foundations and learning from figures like Abraham and Moses, believers can effectively intercede for others. As you engage in this powerful act of love, remember that your prayers matter and can bring about profound change.
### Key Takeaways - Intercessory prayer is rooted in love and concern for others. - Biblical figures such as Abraham and Moses exemplify the power of intercession. - Effective intercession requires identifying needs, emotional engagement, and biblical alignment. --- Image taken from The Ten Commandments 1956 directed by Cecil B. DeMille, Paramount Pictures https://www.ivpress.com/daring-to-draw-near?srsltid=AfmBOopMfIbPcE8bgr1oFcWU-5gWA0ZYXm3Pv8VRzZDUHoM9RpY_zj-W: Link to John White's "Daring to Draw Near
