The Prayer Course 4 (no audio)
This week of zoom church we watched Session 4 of The Prayer Course on intercession. We looked at Old Testament stories about people interceding on behalf of others. In Exodus 17:8-13, Moses grew weary in holding up his arms in intercession during a battle so Aaron and Hur supported his arms until it was won. In Genesis 8, Abraham negotiates with God on behalf of innocent people. 1 Kings 18 tells the story of the prophet Elijah praying for rain in the midst of a severe drought and famine. In these stories it’s evident that our free will plays a role in what God is doing. We can align ourselves with the purposes of God and pray “Let your kingdom come, let your will be done.”
Pete Grieg says that “prayer is saying ‘amen’ or ‘I agree’ to God’s will.” We do this when we pray on behalf of people we know and love, people we don’t know but are in need, and all kinds of situations. When tragedy strikes - whether it be the sickness of a loved one or a disaster like an earthquake, hurricane, or terrorists act on the other side of the world - we can feel helpless. But no lockdown can stop prayer. Intercession is a supernatural call to powerful action that makes a significant difference in our families, our community, and the world.
What are some practical steps we can take to intercede? Pete recommends these:
Get informed - What is going on? Do some research and ask questions.
Get inspired - What does scripture say? Ask God what he is saying.
Get indignant - Let yourself get upset about what is happening.
Get in sync - Find some other people to pray with you. Agree together in prayer.