Unwavering Intercession
- Bishop Keith Butler
- Aug 4, 2023
- 2 min read
God hath not cast away his people which he foreknew. Wot ye not what the scripture saith of Elias? how he maketh intercession to God against Israel saying, Lord, they have killed thy prophets, and digged down thine altars; and I am left alone, and they seek my life. (Romans 11:2-3)
Have you ever gone to God and asked something like “God, why am I the only Christian around here?” Paul included this reference to Elijah because he knew many Christians would feel alone, as Elijah did. For example, as we witness the erosion of moral values and blatant disregard for God’s Word and truth, we also see increased persecution of Christians. In difficult times, it may tempt us to believe we are alone in our commitment to God.
Elijah's intercession serves as a powerful example for us. In his boldness, Elijah pleaded with God on behalf of Israel. His intercession was not a self-centered request for God to spare his life, but an act of faith, knowing that God's purposes are many times beyond our understanding. In the same way, we are called to be intercessors in our generation. We have the privilege of standing before God, advocating for His people, and laying our concerns and burdens at His feet. Our intercession may be prompted by the state of our world, the struggles of our loved ones, or the challenges we face as individuals. Like Elijah, we can approach the throne of grace with confidence, knowing that a God who loves us will hear and answer our prayers.
Elijah persevered. Even when he felt isolated and alone, he continued to faithfully intercede for God's people and purposes. He remained steadfast in his commitment to intercession. Elijah's unwavering persistence reminds us that our prayers have an impact, even when we cannot see immediate results.
Practical Application
Elijah's unwavering persistence reminds us that our prayers have an impact, even when we cannot see immediate results.
