What can we learn from Moses' intercession about our own prayer life? Setting the Scene: Moses Before Pharaoh “So Moses and Aaron went out from Pharaoh, and Moses cried out to the LORD concerning the frogs which He had brought upon Pharaoh.” (Exodus 8:12) Pharaoh had hardened his heart, the land was blanketed with frogs, and the people were desperate. In that tension-filled moment, Moses stepped outside, lifted his voice, and pleaded with the LORD—confident that the Almighty would answer. What We Observe in Moses’ Intercession • Moses prays immediately. • He prays publicly, yet directs his words to God alone. • His request is specific: deliverance from frogs “tomorrow” (v. 10). • He stands in the gap for both Israel and Egypt—people who were suffering because of rebellion. • He expects God’s action, then returns to Pharaoh to announce the timing (v. 13). Lessons for Our Own Prayer Life 1. Pray without delay • When a need surfaces, Moses doesn’t hesitate. Swift prayer reveals trust that God is both listening and able (Psalm 50:15). 2. Intercede beyond our circle • Moses seeks relief even for the oppressor’s land. We, too, may be called to pray for those who oppose us (Matthew 5:44). 3. Be specific • “Tomorrow” sets a clear marker for answered prayer. Naming needs concretely deepens faith and highlights God’s provision (Philippians 4:6). 4. Stand on God’s reputation • Moses’ motive: “that you may know there is no one like the LORD our God” (v. 10). Prayer anchored in God’s glory aligns us with His purposes (John 14:13). 5. Expect results and testify • Moses returns to declare what God will do. When we anticipate answers, we’re ready to witness and give God credit (James 5:16-18). Echoes Throughout Scripture • Exodus 17:11-13—As Moses lifts his hands, Israel prevails. Persistent, posture-focused intercession matters. • Numbers 14:13-19—Moses pleads for mercy after Israel’s rebellion; God spares the nation. Bold petitions can alter outcomes. • 1 Samuel 12:23—Samuel vows never to cease praying for Israel. Continued intercession reflects shepherd-like love. • Psalm 106:23—“Moses His chosen one stood in the gap.” Scripture honors those who intercede sacrificially. • James 5:16—“The prayer of a righteous man has great power.” New-Testament affirmation of the very principle we see in Moses. • Hebrews 7:25—Jesus “always lives to intercede for them,” offering the ultimate model and assurance that our prayers join His. Putting It Into Practice • Respond promptly to crises with prayer rather than anxiety. • Write down your petitions with concrete details and anticipated timing when appropriate. • Add people outside your comfort zone—leaders, adversaries, entire communities—to your prayer list. • Pray with God’s character and reputation in mind, echoing His promises back to Him. • Record answered prayers and share them, so others “may know there is no one like the LORD our God.” The same God who removed Egypt’s plague at Moses’ cry delights to hear and answer the heartfelt, scripture-anchored prayers of His people today. |
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