THE POWER OF INTERCESSION
TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
So the Lord told Abraham, “I have heard a great outcry from Sodom and Gomorrah, because their sin is so flagrant. I am going down to see if their actions are as wicked as I have heard. If not, I want to know.”
Genesis 18:20-21 NLT
TODAY’S THOUGHT
I have given just two verses in a passage of scripture that should be read in its fullness. It is the beginning of an interesting exchange between God and Abraham. Some Bible scholars believe this “Lord” to be a special revelation of Jesus in the Old Testament. Others believe it to be a special angel. I believe the person speaking to Abraham is more than an angel. This person reveals to Abraham that He is going to Sodom and Gomorrah to bring judgement for their sins. Abraham then begins to intercede on behalf of the cities. He begins by asking if God would spare the city if there were 50 righteous people living there. Then Abraham asked if He would spare the city for 45 righteous people. Then 40, then 30, and all the way down to asking God to spare the city for 10 righteous people. Each time God said He would spare the city for 50, 45, 40, and down to 10 people. Let me make two observations. First, there is power in intercessory prayer. I believe God wanted to spare the cities because God does not delight in destruction. Abraham became the channel of intercession. His humility and reverence in approaching God on behalf of others is a model for our intercession for those who are not yet followers of Christ. It was a bold prayer that got results. Secondly, I think this story demonstrates that God will spare the wicked for the sake of the righteous. God promised to spare an entire wicked city for the sake of 10 righteous people. You may feel on your job you are the only righteous person there. Perhaps God has strategically placed you there to be the saving grace for the entire group. He expects your influence to make a difference. We should all be drawn to be intercessors for our world. Instead of attacking the wickedness and corruption let’s come to God’s altar and intercede for transformation and salvation. May our hearts break for the lost.
TODAY’S PRAYER
Prayer: Holy Spirit, I ask You to show me those for whom I need to intercede. Help me to see them the way God sees them. Help me to be a channel of Your work in their lives.
“Scroll down to share what you feel God is saying based on today’s reading.”
Lord , although I stray from you , you know that my heart is good . However , I want it to be better so that I’m one who is saving grace. Help us all Lord !
I bring my all to You. For You alone have transformed my life and walk by my side each day