Somehow, we have disguised evil like laziness, abuse of power and profanity with terms like welfare, politics, and freedom of expression. Some are fearful of confronting those Goliaths. These problems of our society may be pretending to roar like a lion! But we all know who the true Lion of the Tribe of Judah is!!
His Word tells us to pray for all, to intercede on the behalf of kings and those in authority. Today, we’ll take a look at other instructions and model prayers so we can then intercede effectively!
With Humility
Solomon interceded on behalf of his nation in 2 Chronicles 6:12-21. In fact, when he began his prayer, before all his people, he bowed down, went to his knees and lifted his hands to the Lord. His posture of humility is a great example to us. The Lord responded and promised to “hear from heaven and will forgive their sins…” if His people will “humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways.”
With Certainty
Solomon also showed us that we are to intercede with certainty. He praised God for keeping His covenants and for His unfailing love. We know our awesome Lord is our redeemer, savior, our joy, and our comfort. In Psalms 107:2 the psalmist says “Has the Lord redeemed you? Then speak out! Tell others he has redeemed you from your enemies.”
With Authority
We are also told to intercede with authority. Solomon called on God to “carry out the additional promise” He made to David. Daniel’s prayer included an appeal to God as merciful and forgiving. Elijah called on the “God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob”. Our prayers should be based on His Word, not on what we want.
With Clarity
Finally, Solomon prayed with clarity. He asked God to hear his prayers and to watch over the Temple day and night. Daniel asked God to “smile again” on Jerusalem. Jesus prayed with great clarity with His Disciples on the night He would be betrayed. So, yes, we need to pray clearly and specifically.
Our Appeal
On September 7, 1774, the Continental Congress first met at Carpenter’s Hall in Philadelphia. Dr. Jacob Duche led the assembly in prayer at the very beginning of that meeting. Part of his prayer included this “look down in mercy, we beseech thee, on these our American states…”
King David appealed to God, as we should, in Psalm 35:23 to “Awake, and rise to my defense! Contend for me, my God and Lord.” I believe that God will defend us if we will turn to Him! Are you ready to intercede with humility, certainty, authority, and clarity?
A Prayer of Intercession for Our Nation
You are our Redeemer, our Savior, our guide and our peace! You are our Joy and comfort; as the Good Shepherd, You protect us! Search us, Oh God, and know our hearts today. Show us the right path and point out the road for us to follow. Turn our eyes from worthless things and give us life through Your Word! Free us from the bondage of fear that grips our nation.
You have said, “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord.” Let that be our cry, O Lord. Shower down such blessings as You see fit. You alone are our Savior and Lord. Your unfailing love for us is powerful. Your faithfulness will endure forever.
We pray these things in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
"His faithful love endures forever."
Until next time...
Chaplain Gray
