Intercession

“With every prayer and request, pray at all times in the Spirit…be alert with all perseverance and every request for all the saints, and pray in my behalf…that in proclaiming it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.”—Ephesians 6:18–20 NASB

These were dark days. Nazi armies had vanquished Belgium and driven the British forces to the French coast. It seemed inevitable that the British army on the continent would be crushed.

Many were afraid and unsettled. But while politicians and military leaders debated strategy, some turned to God, like the people of the Bible College of Wales.

Throughout the war years, “The whole college was in prayer every evening.” They also had other times of prayer and days of fasting. This was a commitment that began before the war, and they continued praying throughout the war. They prayed even when circumstances looked hopeless. After both defeats and victories, they continued to seek God.

One day, Nazi planes passed overhead as the college leader Rees Howells began to speak. Despite the sounds, Howells delivered a spellbinding message. The students and faculty sensed God’s presence and the “certainty of victory.” Fear had lifted. Suddenly the place was filled with praise.

These dedicated believers were fighting in the Spirit, demonstrating true intercession, and praying even when circumstances didn’t seem encouraging, or it may not have seemed their prayers would be answered.

The world needs intercessors and prayer warriors. Ask God to give you a burden for prayer—for nations, leaders, the lost, revival, physical and financial needs, God’s intervention in world affairs…yes, you can be an intercessor!

Reflection Question: Write out a prayer for the lost people you encounter today.