How can we apply Abraham's example of prayer in our daily lives? Setting the Scene Genesis 20 records Abraham’s failure in Gerar—yet the Lord still uses him as an intercessor. After revealing Abimelech’s danger, God says, “He is a prophet, and he will pray for you” (Genesis 20:7). Verse 17 shows the result: “Then Abraham prayed to God, and God healed Abimelech and his wife and his maidservants, so that they could bear children.” (Genesis 20:17) Even flawed servants can stand in the gap when God calls them to pray. Key Observations from Genesis 20:17 • Prayer is direct conversation: “Abraham prayed to God.” • Prayer has tangible impact: “God healed Abimelech … so that they could bear children.” • The answer was immediate and measurable. • God linked the miracle to Abraham’s prayer; it was not automatic. • Intercession flowed from God’s prior promise (Genesis 20:7). Timeless Principles to Embrace 1. God invites redeemed sinners to intercede. • Abraham had just lied about Sarah again, yet the Lord still used him. • Parallel: 1 John 1:9; restored fellowship fuels effective prayer. 2. Intercession blesses others more than self. • Abraham prayed for a man who could have taken his wife. • Philippians 2:4—“each of you should look not only to your own interests.” 3. God delights to attach His work to our prayers. • James 5:16—“The prayer of a righteous man has great power to prevail.” • Ezekiel 22:30 shows God seeking someone to “stand in the gap.” 4. Praying according to revealed will brings results. • God had already said He would heal (Genesis 20:7). • 1 John 5:14—confidence when we ask “according to His will.” 5. Prayer restores what sin threatens to destroy. • Abimelech’s household was barren because of Abraham’s deceit. • Job 42:10—Job’s fortunes turned “when he prayed for his friends.” Putting Abraham’s Pattern into Daily Practice • Keep short accounts with God. – Confess sin quickly, then move forward in confidence. • Make intercession a priority list item. – Spouses, children, church leaders, governing authorities (1 Timothy 2:1-2). – Write names and needs; review them daily. • Pray Scripture promises back to God. – Example: Psalm 103:3 when praying for healing; 2 Peter 3:9 when praying for salvation. • Expect specific answers. – Track requests and record outcomes as visible reminders of God’s faithfulness. • Stand in the gap even for those who wrong you. – Luke 6:28—“pray for those who mistreat you.” – Abraham’s prayer turned potential enemies into friends. • Recognize divine timing. – God closed and then opened wombs; His schedule is perfect (Ecclesiastes 3:1). Verses to Keep in View • Genesis 18:22-33 – Abraham’s earlier intercession for Sodom. • 1 Samuel 12:23 – “Far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by ceasing to pray for you.” • Matthew 5:44 – “Pray for those who persecute you.” • Colossians 4:2 – “Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” Abraham’s life shows that heartfelt, Scripture-anchored intercession moves the hand of God. Let’s step into that calling today. |
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