Does it really make a difference to pray on behalf of other people?

I believe in the power of intercessory prayer, not only because I have seen God work in powerful ways to change lives, but also because the Bible repeatedly gives us instruction on how we should pray for others.

Many Bible heroes were intercessors. Abraham interceded for Sodom (Genesis 18), Moses cried out for Israel (Exodus 32), as did David, Samuel, Hezekiah, and others. Jesus is our great Intercessor, and all of our prayers go through Him. “There is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus” (1 Timothy 2:5).

One of the clearest models of intercessory prayer is found in Daniel 9. Here we read how this Old Testament prophet poured out his heart on behalf of his people. Like a type of Christ, Daniel identifies with the sins of the people, using the word “we” repeatedly in this prayer. He takes this time of intercession seriously by fasting and taking off his government work robes.

The Bible tells us the different types people for whom we should intercede, such as those in authority (1 Timothy 2:2), the church (Psalm 11:6), friends (Job 42:8), the sick (James 5:14), and even those who persecute us (Matthew 5:44). It doesn’t take a special calling to intercede for others. All Christians should pray for their family and friends and those in need.

My favorite story that demonstrates the power of intercessory prayer is the apostle Peter’s release from prison by an angel. Notice how Luke introduces this incident: “Peter was therefore kept in prison, but constant prayer was offered to God for him by the church” (Acts 12:5). In this case, the answer to the prayers of the church for Peter’s release was a resounding ‘yes.’

We might be tempted to think that intercessory prayer is a waste of time because we don’t always “get” what we have prayed for. But we should remember to ask for God’s will to be done. Sometimes that means ‘no’ and sometimes it means “wait.”

Key Bible Texts

Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. (James 5:16 KJV)