Intercession through tears is a profound expression of prayer and supplication found throughout the Bible. This form of intercession involves heartfelt pleas to God, often accompanied by weeping, as a demonstration of deep emotion and earnestness in seeking divine intervention. The Bible provides several examples of individuals who interceded with tears, highlighting the sincerity and intensity of their prayers.

Biblical Examples

1. Hannah's Plea: One of the most poignant examples of intercession through tears is found in the account of Hannah. In 1 Samuel 1:10, Hannah is described as being "deeply distressed" and weeping bitterly as she prayed to the LORD for a child. Her tears were an outward manifestation of her inner anguish and fervent desire for God to grant her request. The LORD heard her prayer, and she bore a son, Samuel, who would become a significant prophet in Israel.

2. David's Lament: King David, known for his deep relationship with God, often expressed his prayers through tears. In Psalm 6:6, David laments, "I am weary from groaning; all night I flood my bed with weeping and drench my couch with tears." His tears were a reflection of his repentance and his plea for God's mercy and deliverance from his enemies.

3. Hezekiah's Prayer: In 2 Kings 20:3, King Hezekiah turned his face to the wall and prayed to the LORD, weeping bitterly. Hezekiah's tears accompanied his prayer for healing when he was gravely ill. God responded to his heartfelt intercession by granting him an additional fifteen years of life.

4. Jeremiah's Weeping: Known as the "weeping prophet," Jeremiah often interceded for the people of Judah with tears. In Jeremiah 9:1, he expresses his sorrow, saying, "Oh, that my head were a spring of water and my eyes a fountain of tears, I would weep day and night for the slain of my people." His tears were a testament to his deep compassion and concern for the spiritual state of his nation.

5. Jesus' Compassion: The New Testament also records instances of intercession through tears. In John 11:35, Jesus wept at the tomb of Lazarus, demonstrating His compassion and empathy for those mourning. Although not a direct intercession, His tears preceded the miraculous raising of Lazarus, showcasing the power of heartfelt emotion in prayer.

Theological Significance

Intercession through tears is a powerful form of prayer that underscores the depth of human emotion and the earnestness of one's plea before God. It reflects a heart fully engaged in seeking God's will and intervention. The Bible teaches that God is attentive to the cries of His people, and tears can be a catalyst for divine action. Psalm 56:8 states, "You have taken account of my wanderings; put my tears in Your bottle—are they not in Your book?" This verse suggests that God values and remembers the tears of His faithful, indicating their significance in His eyes.

Practical Application

For believers today, intercession through tears can be a meaningful way to express deep concerns and desires to God. It serves as a reminder that God is not distant or indifferent to human suffering but is compassionate and responsive to the heartfelt cries of His children. In times of personal or communal distress, believers are encouraged to approach God with sincerity and vulnerability, trusting that He hears and responds to their prayers.