Intercession in the act of something coming between two other things. These things can be events, inanimate or living objects. Isaiah took note that when sin comes between man and God, it keeps prayer from reaching beyond the ceiling. But God is not pleased with that situation and because no one interceded for us in our time of distress, God showed us mercy and saved us from certain destruction. (Isa 59:2,12-13,16)

Few of us really spend time thinking about the "long" arm of sin that seems to place us outside the reach of God. Neither do we consider the noise of sin that block's God's hearing our prayer for help. But thanks be to God; He saw our need and showed us mercy in our time of need. So then, how do we show our gratefulness to God for what he has done? All too often, we continue to live like we're a pawn of sin and treat God's mercy with contempt.

Paul wrote to the Christians at Philipi and told them he was praying for them as partners in the gospel. He encouraged them with assurance that God would complete the work he started in them. He said he looked forward to his next visit and longed to spend time with them. Such is the role of the intercessor, fashioned after God who intercedes for us even though we don't deserve it.

I can't even imagine where I'd be were it not for those who interceded for me growing up and as an adult. I still remember some who encouraged me as a Sunday school or Youth teacher, pastor or friend. I remember some who stood by me through thick and thin, but I don't think I'll know in this life everyone who prayed for me, asking God to strengthen, guide and protect me. Someday I will! I hope I know everyone of them and in heaven let them know how much I appreciate their silent intercession for me.

Some may ask why as WebServant, I spend so much time counseling and praying for people I'll probably never meet in this life. The reason is simple; I'm under obligation. By that I mean, how can I neglect the love and care shown me by so many faceless intercessors on my behalf? And in a greater sense, how could I treat God's mercy with contempt by not showing the kindness to others that He showed me?

Intercession is not some sort of righteous pay back for me. Instead, it's a way of life that God has taught me whereby He reveals certain things and then gives me the privilege to be involved in what he's doing - silently, often only known to Him. I don't need thanks for what I do. The knowledge that God knows what I'm doing and the joy I have serving Him is enough reason to keep doing it.

Like to become an intercessor? My prayer for you is the same one Paul gave the Philippians: May your love abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and thereby be pure and blameless when He comes, giving God glory for the great things He has done through your selfless service for the Lord Jesus. (Php 1:9-10)

1 Developed from Read the Bible Thru ( Is. 57:15-59:21 Ph. 1:1-26 Ps. 71:1-24 Pr. 24:9-10 )
2. Scripture comes from the Holy Bible, New International Version; (c)1978 by New York International Bible Society

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