What I learned about praying for others

Hundreds of sermons have been written about prayer. Both you and I are convinced that prayers are important, and these days we shouldnt even think of leaving our homes without whispering a prayer for protection. Even those who are not faithful church-goers admit to its power because prayer really changes things.

But along with all our prayers for the stuff we want and the things we need, theres one thats often left unsaid. You will never know the power and influence of intercessory prayer until you get to heaven and God reveals to you all that was accomplished because of your faithfulness in lifting others to His throne.

Of course most of us pray for our family and close friends. And when prayers are requested for the sick, we dutifully bow our heads. And thats all good. But what about that person who is not in your circle? You might not know him well, and maybe you dont even like her. Can you bring yourself to pray for that person too?

You cant even imagine what some people are going through. Name a difficult situation and you can be sure that somebody seated in your congregation is struggling with it. Many of these people are unable to pray for themselves; maybe because they dont know how to make the connection with God. Maybe some of them feel that they have fallen too far and God wont listen, and still others just may not have the strength to call on the Lord.

Has it ever happened to you that youre going about your regular business and suddenly, for no apparent reason, a certain person comes to mind? Its not coincidence. Let me tell you why. Once, a few years ago, I woke up suddenly in the middle of the night with our pastor on my mind. I tried to go back to sleep, but couldnt stop thinking about him. So I decided to pray for him. Immediately after that I was able to fall asleep again effortlessly. I didnt give the whole situation much thought until a few days later when a group of church sisters met to discuss the importance of praying for others. I shared my experience and told them that I might never know why I was impressed to pray for the pastor that dawn. One of the ladies opened her eyes wide and told us that at that very hour, the pastor had been travelling by land with a group to take relief packages to some members in a disaster area. Apparently the vehicle he was driving suffered some mechanical failures and was about to cause a serious accident. Miraculously, they were spared. Her husband had been in the vehicle following the pastor and had witnessed the whole ordeal!

Needless to say we all sat in shock for a few moments. Thats what happens when we intercede. Nothing in the life of Gods followers occurs by mere coincidence. Theres always a purpose. Your co-workers, your doctor, your neighbors, were all placed in contact with you for a reason. If you still havent figured out why, its time to ask God to spell it out for you. Lift these people in prayer. Its your duty and its your privilege.

Can you imagine all the wonderful changes that can take place because of your prayers? Youll never fully know all that God is able to do for others through you. Its an exciting, yet humbling thought. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Get a special box or decorate one and fill it with little slips of papers with the names of your friends, family and even people you dont know that well. Everyday, pull out a name and spend the day lifting that person in prayer. It doesnt matter if you dont know what they need at the moment, God knows.
Start a prayer journal dedicated exclusively to your relationships. Write about each person as if youre introducing them to Jesus, tell him what they each mean to you and record how your relationships evolve. Dream for each of them and tell Jesus about it.
Whenever you hear an ambulance siren, make it a habit to pray for whoever is inside it and for their family and friends. Remember that if it werent for Gods grace, you or somebody you love might have been taking that ride.
If a neighbor, co-worker or boss is giving you trouble, dont tell them off; lift them in prayer. Youll be amazed at the outcome.
Whenever you pass by an accident or hear about one on the news, pray for the injured and the survivors.
If somebody suddenly comes to mind, pray for him or her. God is trying to tell you something.
Before picking up the phone, say a quick prayer for the caller. Praying for others is a gratifying experience. Wouldnt you feel empowered if you found out that people you barely know are praying for you? Become a blessing today. Youll be amazed at what God can do.