“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” (Hebrews 4:15-16)
Prayer Practice: Intercessory Prayer
Intercession is one of the ways God invites us into the heart of the Trinity. As we keep company with Jesus through intercession, we begin to see the world and the people in it from his perspective and heart. Increasingly we long for the same things he longs for. The Holy Spirit guides our intercessions so they sound more and more like Jesus’ own intercessions for this world: “Your kingdom come; your will be done.”
At times our trust wavers and we don’t know how to pray, can’t find words to pray and are too distressed to pray. At those moments we have the assurance that God prays. The Holy Spirit, who inhabits our being, personally tutors us in praying and even interprets for us when we are unable to articulate our hearts to God. The Spirit intercedes with “groans that words cannot express” (Romans 8:26). Furthermore, Jesus is seated at the right hand of the Father, interceding for us as well (Romans 8:34). We are never left alone. God is with us and praying for us.
From “Spiritual Disciplines Handbook” by Adele Ahlberg Calhoun
This week’s practice is intercessory prayer. Try to practice a few times this week…if possible make time to practice each day along with your daily reading.
First, as you begin to pray, write down the names of people in your life who are experiencing suffering and trouble.
Second, ask God, “Lord, what is your heart for this person?” Take a moment to listen and ask God to show you his heart. Listen and pray, remembering that the Holy Spirit is also praying.
Finally, bring any of your own struggles and pain before God, remembering that he loves you and knows you.