bits from bob....

Do You, Will You, Pray?

by Robert J. Young
©, 2001, Robert J. Young
[permission is given to reprint with credit noted]

"When we discern that people are not going on spiritually and allow the discernment to turn to criticism, we block our way to God. God never gives us discernment in order that we may criticize, but that we may intercede." This statement of Oswald Chambers hits at the very heart of intercessory prayer. How blessed we are to be able to pray for others. Paul frequently reminded his readers that he was praying for them. Wonderful things can occur when we pray in this way.

Consider these five ideas concerning intercessory prayer.

• 1. Let others know we are praying for them.
• 2. Intercessory prayer can strengthen others in the use of their spiritual gifts (Rom. 1:11).
• 3. We can serve in comforting others (2 Cor. 1:3-7).
• 4. We should pray that God will give the spirit of wisdom (Eph. 1:17).
• 5. Intercessory prayer should ask that the love of others abound more and more (Phil. 1:9).

Do you pray? How do you pray? Will you pray for others? May God help us to discern the needs in the lives of others so that we may effectively and fervently know intercessory prayer.