The Power of Intercession

Text: Colossians 1:9-12 Theme: Praying for others in order for change Key verses: “…since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding. And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully giving thanks to the Father…” (v. 9-12a) What God said to me: Dwayne, you must die to yourself. Playing days are over, no more dabbling in sin. You have many people interceding for you. (It would blow your mind if you knew how many!) Do you think I will turn a deaf ear to them? Do you think I will continue overlooking your blatant willful rebellion? I will conform you into the image of my dear Son. I will present you faultless in my presence with exceeding joy. I will finish your faith. Just look at all the benefits the Colossian believers received from Paul’s powerful praying: knowledge of my will, spiritual wisdom and understanding, life that was worthy and pleasing toward me, fruitfulness in all they did for me, growth in their knowledge of me, strength through all my power (and that’s a lot…), great endurance and patience, joy and thankfulness. I heard Paul’s prayer because it came from a pure and passionate heart that loved me and the ones for whom it interceded. Likewise, I expect you to make time daily to intercede for others, beginning with your family, your church, your close friends and those you are mentoring. Then make time to pray for your neighbors and those across the seas. What I said to God: Lord, You have been our dwelling place throughout all generations. Before the mountains were born and You brought forth the earth and the sea, from everlasting to everlasting You are God. Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. Satisfy us in the morning with Your unfailing love. Cleanse me, precious Jesus. I confess my rebellious thoughts and actions. I want the power on me to intercede for others, just as so many are interceding for me. I want that power manifested in and through my wife and my boys. Oh God, You are our source of holiness, joy, and fulfillment. There is none like You! Thank you for speaking so clearly and loudly to my soul today. I (really do) love You…