How can we apply Moses' example of intercession in our prayer life today? Scripture Focus: Exodus 8:29 “Moses answered, “As soon as I leave you, I will pray to the LORD, and tomorrow the swarms of flies will depart from Pharaoh, his officials, and his people. But let Pharaoh no longer deceive by not letting the people go to sacrifice to the LORD.” Observing Moses’ Example • Immediate action: “As soon as I leave you, I will pray.” • Clear expectation of God’s response: “Tomorrow the swarms of flies will depart.” • Concern for others: Deliverance for Pharaoh’s whole nation. • Integrity check: A loving but firm call to obey God—“no longer deceive.” • Personal withdrawal: Moses steps away to pray in God’s presence (v. 30). Timeless Principles of Intercession • Urgency—prayer is the first, not last, resort (Psalm 32:6). • Bold faith—confidence that God hears and answers (Hebrews 4:16). • Specific requests—naming the need (Philippians 4:6). • Others-focused heart—standing in the gap regardless of personal cost (1 Samuel 12:23). • Alignment with obedience—praying while calling people to submit to God’s will (John 14:15). Practical Steps for Today 1. Step away and seek the Lord—find a quiet place as Moses did when leaving Pharaoh. 2. Name the need and time frame—speak plainly: “Lord, remove this obstacle,” trusting His timetable. 3. Intercede for whole communities—pray beyond personal circles for leaders, officials, and citizens (1 Timothy 2:1–2). 4. Combine prayer with truth—lovingly urge obedience in conversations while praying behind the scenes. 5. Keep no record of self-interest—Moses prayed for the very man oppressing him. Lay aside resentment. 6. Watch and testify—note God’s answers so His faithfulness is remembered (Psalm 105:1–2). Encouragement from the New Testament • Jesus forever lives to intercede (Hebrews 7:25); our prayers join His. • The Spirit helps in weakness, interceding “with groans too deep for words” (Romans 8:26). • “The prayer of a righteous man has great power to prevail” (James 5:16). Putting It All Together Pray quickly, pray specifically, pray for others—even for those who oppose. Pray with faith that God will act, and with a steadfast call to obedience. Moses’ pattern becomes an everyday rhythm: retreat, request, rely, and recount God’s mighty answers. |
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