Tonight, I was reading J. Oswald Sanders' book (and I quote) re:
A great portion of Paul's prayers dealt with intercession - the presentation of the personal needs of others at the throne of grace. This is the unselfish side of prayer. Paul was constantly praying for his converts and churches.
Intercession does not have in view the overcoming of the reluctance of God, but in the claiming of the mercies of Christ on behalf of others who are in a bad situation. The spiritual development of his flock was the lifeblood of Paul's experience, as we see in his prayers of intercession.
Others, dear Lord, Yes, others,
This all my prayer shall be;
Help me to live for others,
That I may live like thee.
It was the experience of Henry Martyn that during times of spiritual dryness and depression - and who doesn't have such experiences? - he often found "a delightful revival in the act of praying for others, for their conversion or sanctification, or prosperity in the work of the Lord."
Every man at the Nashville Promise Keepers conference (and we are expecting no less than a sold out event - in every sense of the word) will truly be the blessed ones as recipients of your collective intercession and volunteer efforts.
Think of all the changed lives; the families affected that will be set in motion July 20 -21... Do you recall the first time you went to a Promise Keepers event? Someone volunteered, someone prayed over the seat that you sat in... someone "shamelessly recruited" because they knew by faith the payoff of a changed life... make that call, send that eMail, shamelessly recruit to build your teams...
This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of God's people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, men will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else. And in their prayers for you their hearts will go out to you, because of the surpassing grace God has given you. 2Cor 9:12-14
Others, dear Lord, Yes, others,
This all my prayer shall be;
Help me to live for others,
That I may live like thee.
Blessings –
Kerry
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