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When we hear the word intercession, most of us probably think of prayer. And biblically, that's exactly where it takes us—but intercession carries a bigger picture. To intercede is to represent someone on their behalf.

Throughout Scripture, we see pictures of what this looks like. Sometimes intercession means getting into the pit with someone, like Ebed-Melech did when he rescued Jeremiah from the cistern. Sometimes it means making an appeal on someone's behalf, like Abraham did when he pleaded with God for Sodom and Gomorrah. And sometimes it means simply standing with someone until their situation is resolved.

In other words, intercession is standing between God and people, bringing the needs of others before Him.

The greatest picture of intercession, of course, is Jesus. At the cross, Jesus stood in our place. He represented our sin and condemnation and took the punishment on our behalf so that we could receive His victory. And Hebrews 7:25 tells us that Jesus “always lives to make intercession” for those who come to God through Him.

If we want to live like Jesus and love like Jesus, then we need to become people who pray—not just for ourselves, but for others.

Why Do We Intercede?

First, we intercede because we are called to. Paul urges us in 1 Timothy 2:1 to pray and intercede for all people. Samuel even said that he would consider it a sin to cease praying for God's people. Intercession isn't simply an optional extra for people who are especially passionate about prayer. It is part of what it means to follow Jesus.

Second, we intercede to represent others before God. Ezekiel 22:30 describes God looking for someone who would “stand in the gap.” God invites us to bring the needs of our families, communities, leaders, churches, nations, and those who don't yet know Him before His throne.

Third, we intercede to strengthen those we pray for. Galatians 6:2 tells us to “bear one another's burdens.” Prayer allows us to carry those burdens to Jesus rather than carrying them alone. Like Aaron and Hur holding up Moses' arms when he grew weary, intercession means coming alongside someone and saying, “You don't have to stand alone.”

And fourth, we intercede by re-presenting the victory of the cross. We don't have to defeat the enemy again—Jesus already accomplished that. Instead, we pray God's Word into situations where the enemy is attacking. Scripture is described as the sword of the Spirit, and God's Word accomplishes what He sends it to accomplish.

We Don't Pray Alone

One of the most powerful truths about intercession is that when we pray, we're partnering with God Himself.

Romans 8 tells us that the Holy Spirit intercedes for us, while Jesus also intercedes for us at the right hand of the Father. We aren't praying alone. We are joining a ministry that Jesus Himself continues.

Intercession doesn't just change circumstances around us; it changes us. As we bring the needs of others before God, He grows our compassion, humility, faith, perspective, and dependence on Him.

So let's not just talk about prayer. Let's become people who pray.

Who needs you to stand in the gap today?

Who needs you to carry their burden to Jesus?

Who needs someone to pray until the battle is won?

The invitation is simple: pray for others, stand with others, and partner with Jesus in His ministry of intercession.