Standing in the Gap

I am convinced that much of the Holy Spirit’s power released in us is through intercessory prayer. I have felt that power as people have prayed for me, and I have been used by God to “stand in the gap” for others. There are times in a person’s life when they are distraught, overwhelmed, or walking far from God. At these times we can make a profound difference in their lives as they work through grief, heartache, or other hurts encountered.

A system for praying for others is really necessary for us to be consistent. One activity initiated by my wife, Kimmy, whereby my family can regularly pray for others happens each evening at the dinner table. We have taken the picture Christmas cards sent us this year, and we pray for a family each evening as we prayer before dinner. We will continue to pray each night through out the year for these families as we rotate through the cards.

Interceding for someone who is living far from God is the primary message of the scripture I am using today, Ezekiel 22:30. "I looked for a man among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found none. What could God do through you and me if we regularly prayed for people and against the evils of this world? In this passage of scripture, God was looking for someone whom he could count on to intercede for a very evil and sick people. Sadly, there were none.

Can He count on you and me? Let’s stand in the Gap today for ungodliness in our world around us. Who do you know living very far from God whom you can include on your list?

Benny Stofer

Worship Pastor