In praying for others, it can be discouraging when we don’t directly see things changing or even when someone doesn’t know we are praying for them. While we can trust that God is listening and moving in the supernatural, you may wonder, What is the purpose of praying for others?
Here are a few reasons why we pray for others:
1. It moves us beyond ourselves. While we have a lot going on, it can be easy to stay in our bubble and only bring our personal worries, concerns and desires to God. Intercessory prayer serves as a reminder that it’s not all about us.
2. We are invited into it in Scripture. Ephesians 6:18 says, “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people,” (NLT). Intercessory prayer is not simply a spiritual practice, but a call to obedience.
3. It draws us into the mystery of Christ’s intercession. Romans 8:26 says that “the Spirit himself intercedes for us,” (NLT). Intercession is a form of prayer where we get to partner with the Holy Spirit in praying for His people.
Praying for others forms in us dependency on God’s mighty work, exposes us to his miraculous power, and keeps us tender to the movement of the Holy Spirit. It turns our concerns and worries into prayer and enters us into God’s heart for the world.
