What do you offer when someone asks to pray for you? Let me share what I hear, as an intercessor, when I ask this question of others.
Some people seem to have no idea what they need prayer for. It’s kind of a ‘deer in the headlights’ look that comes over their face and then the request they offer is likely to be the first thing that popped in their head.
Some have no doubt what they need prayer for and will dive right into the deep waters of sharing what is truly on their hearts and often sitting on their shoulders. They speak as though talking to a best friend, trusting that I will carry their request straight to the Lord on their behalf.
Others really don’t want to divulge much. They may skim the surface of their life by sharing only what they are certain they don’t need to really worry too much about. Perhaps, they are afraid to trust their deepest needs with another.
Then there are those that enjoy launching into sharing the prayer needs of ALL their family members, close friends, neighbors, co-workers, and anyone else they can possibly think of; often forgetting to share their own requests. A few answer with broad prayer requests that perhaps we all need; wisdom, guidance, provision and healing.
Does it matter how you answer? As an intercessor, I believe it does. While there are times I may feel the Holy Spirit direct me in what to pray for you, there are also times, I sincerely want to know what you want me to take to the Lord in prayer.
Remember, when the blind man called out, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” Jesus response is unforgettable. He turned and asked the man, “What do you want me to do for you?” We may be thinking Jesus didn’t need to even ask the man. The man was blind! But, he did ask. Jesus said, “What do you want me to do for you?”
In following Jesus’ example, I, too, must ask. “What do you want me to pray for you?” It’s a sincere question. Your reply will help determine what I take to the foot of God’s throne in prayer for you. For that reason, I urge you to consider your reply carefully should someone ask you if they can pray for you.
The blind man’s response was, “I want to see.” Jesus answered his prayer.
By Jacqui - One of God's Intercessors
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