Intercessory Prayers

What are Intercession & Supplication?

Intercession and supplication are often the most common prayers we naturally structure into our lives. Intercessory prayers are prayed on behalf of others. These are the prayers that we pray at the request of others or, perhaps, prompted by the Holy Spirit. They include prayers for the well-being of others, the general provision of God’s people, the advancement of God’s kingdom, and the betterment of the world itself, for example. Intercessory prayers can be made in one’s personal time with the Lord or even with the person you are praying for. Intercessory prayers are powerful and demonstrate the miraculous movements of God.

On the other hand, prayers of supplication are specific requests for oneself. These requests, often called “petitions,” are individualized prayers that seek God for direction, support, healing, and deliverance. Supplication can be specific to circumstances in one’s life or as broad as forgiveness for wrongdoings. Either way, these requests are personal and between yourself and the Lord. Often, prayers of supplication can turn to intercessory prayers as you ask others to pray similar prayers on your behalf.

Both intercessory prayers and prayers of supplication require faith as we approach the Lord for requests on behalf of others or ourselves. Interestingly, scripture (Romans 8, specifically) also tells us that the Holy Spirit is interceding on our behalf. In this way, not only are we making requests of the Lord, but he is also supporting us in prayer. How beautiful! We will be studying scriptures to support and teach these truths throughout the prayer and fasting season.

Daily Thought:

Interestingly, this is a scripture that we previously studied in the section concerning confession and repentance. It is essential to look back at this section of James as it also teaches the importance of intercession. When one has the courage to approach a trusted friend or family member with their sin, the Bible promises that the prayers shared in these situations have the healing power of righteousness. What a beautiful gift we have in the Holy Spirit to come alongside our loved ones in prayer!

Scripture Excerpt:

James 5:13, ESV

Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray.

Prayer Point:

Today, seek out a trusted friend or family member and ask how you can pray for them—specifically in the areas where they struggle with sin. With authority, pray with that person over that particular aspect of their life. From there, set a reminder to pray for the specific person in that particular thing for next week, as well.