A Daily Purpose (Day 43)

By contributing writer Lindsey Capron

Intercessory Prayer

A panel of two teachers and three school board officials sat before my mother and me as they discussed the fate of a family member who was facing expulsion from school. A serious offense was committed and the school’s superintendent was about to make a ruling.

As the court-like hearing was coming to close, closing remarks were opened to my mother and me. As I was called to approach the microphone, I spoke, hoping to stand in the gap for my family member to be forgiven, restored, and welcomed back into school. 

Appealing for a Nation 

In Exodus 34:8-9, Moses finds himself in the same serious situation pleading and standing in the gap for others. For him, it’s not in front of a panel of teachers and school board officials but in front of the Creator of the Universe. 

The Israelites had more than their fair share of indulgence in sin, transgressions, and idol worship instead of trusting, obeying, and worshiping God, who led them out of bondage from Egypt. Moses had the privilege of gaining a private audience with God as he was hand-picked by Him to lead the Israelites to the promised land. 

Stubbornness

God was fed up with the behavior of the Israelites and was threatening life-ending judgment because they were stiff-necked people (Ex. 33:5). 

While in God’s presence, Moses revered God and pleaded his case on behalf of himself and the Israelites even though they were guilty of the sins and transgressions committed against God. He asked for forgiveness and restoration. 

Moses’ display of intercession on behalf of himself and his people is a powerful foreshadowing of what Jesus would ultimately do for us on the cross. Moses and Jesus stood in the gap between a fallen race and Faithful God. 

Responsible 

As believers in Christ, we have the power and privilege to stand in the gap for others. Yes, we are fallen creatures, but we are also forgiven by a faithful God who keeps His word and honors His everlasting covenant with us. God has considered us righteous in Him and will honor the intercession of the righteous to bridge the gap for restoration and reception. 

In this increasingly dark time, we’re living in, the world and even the church is in serious need of our intercession lest we face judgment. Intercession is more than just a simple prayer that we toss up to God on others behalf. It’s humbly petitioning and pleading the cause for others because their lives here on Earth and souls for eternity are at stake. 

Pray without Ceasing

Who might God be placing on your heart to stand in the gap for? Standing in the gap for someone or even a nation may seem like a heavy load to carry. But how much more joyous will it be to see God restore and receive those we are pleading and petitioning for in this life and in heaven.