Mind the GapSample

The Power of Intercession

The power of intercession is sometimes undervalued because of the idea that praying for others is merely a caring gesture. We pray for others when we do not know what else we can do to reduce difficult circumstances. I wonder if Aaron and Hur had the same idea when they joined Moses on the hill during the battle against Amalek (Exodus 17:8-16).

Moses obeyed the instructions that God revealed to him but was soon confronted with his human shortcomings. "As long as Moses held up the staff in his hand, the Israelites had the advantage. But whenever he dropped his hand, the Amalekites gained the advantage. Moses' arms soon became so tired he could no longer hold them up" (Exodus 17:11-12, NLT). That is where we find one of the most beautiful examples of intercession in the Bible.

Aaron and Hur took their positions on either side of Moses, bridging the gap that was caused by his shortcomings. "Then they stood on each side of Moses, holding up his hands. So his hands held steady until sunset. As a result, Joshua overwhelmed the army of Amalek in battle" (Exodus 17:12-13, NLT). Moses' intercession for Joshua won the battle while Aaron and Hur interceded for the intercessor!

Who are you praying for? Do you believe that you may be the deciding link as Moses was to Israel's army? "So he said he would destroy them – had not Moses, his chosen one, stood in the breach before him to keep his wrath from destroying them" (Psalm 106:23, NIV).

What if you can make the difference between life and death?

Let us explore some practical ways to intercede for others in the following days. That is how God expects us to keep each other close to Him. "But you, dear friends, must build each other up in your most holy faith, pray in the power of the Holy Spirit, and await the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will bring you eternal life. In this way, you will keep yourselves safe in God's love" (Jude 1:20-21, NLT).