But, like the gift of exorcism, I believe it should be added to the list.
When I talk about this to pastors, they almost invariably tell me that in their congregations are certain people whom they and others openly recognize as having a special prayer ministry, over and above that of the average person.
This is an early clue that they might have the gift of intercession.
Here is my definition of the gift of intercession:
The gift of intercession is the special ability that God gives to certain members of the Body of Christ to pray for extended periods of time on a regular basis and see frequent and specific answers to their prayers to a degree much greater than that which is expected of the average Christian.
Those with the gift of intercession:
- Pray longer. One hour a day is the minimum I have found; more frequently they pray two to five hours a day.
- Pray with more intensity.
- Enjoy prayer more and receive more personal satisfaction from their prayer times.
- See more frequent and dramatic answers to their prayers.
- Are acutely aware of hearing quite clearly from God. Many have an accompanying gift of prophecy.
How many members of an average congregation have the gift of intercession?
The answer to this question is not fully known.
Undoubtedly, further research may turn up some significant variables.
Certain denominations or theological traditions may have more active intercessors than others.
I say 'active' because I am convinced there are many people with the gift of intercession out there in our churches who have not yet discovered their gift or started to use it effectively because their church environment is not conducive to releasing this gift.
One of my prayers is that God will use this book to help change the environment so that multitudes of churches across denominational lives will aggressively encourage the ministry of intercession on all levels."
Today’s post -##20 Intercession as a spiritual Gift, in the series taken from C. Peter Wagner’s book, PRAYER SHIELD, How to intercede for pastors, Christian leaders and others on the spiritual frontlines. (pgs. 48-50) By Regal Books
The next post: 8/24 from Wagner’s book is, #21 Women as Intercessors
Let’s pray: Father, some of us recognize this "gift" working in us. Help us be faithful to follow Your guidance in exercising it for the benefit of those around us, especially for fellow believers.
Hopefully, others will now see that they too, have this gift, and will be more willing to pray. We ask this in Jesus' Name, amen.
Today’s Bible verse Prov. 2:10-11 "When wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto thy soul: Discretion shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee."
Today’s quotes: Max Lucado – “If God is able to place the stars in their sockets and suspend the sky like a curtain—do you think it remotely possible God is able to guide your life? Could it be He is mighty enough to light your path?
Jesus said, “Look at the birds in the air. They don’t plant or harvest or store into barns, but your heavenly Father feeds them. Why do you worry about clothes?” Matthew 6:26. The next time a sunrise steals your breath, say nothing and listen as heaven whispers, “Do you like it? I did it just for you!”
Martin Wiles - Never assume you can handle all of life’s situations on your own. Keep in touch with the One who sees not only the present but also the future.
Some thoughts today: Who do people think you are? Where's your identity? How firm is your identity with God?
- We are born again into the Holy Nation of believers in Christ.
- We are priests and we can go between God and the world.
Tomorrow’s post: How to Stay Young Mary Southerland
A popular post:
The next post: 8/24 from Wagner’s book is, #21 Women as Intercessors
Let’s pray: Father, some of us recognize this "gift" working in us. Help us be faithful to follow Your guidance in exercising it for the benefit of those around us, especially for fellow believers.
Hopefully, others will now see that they too, have this gift, and will be more willing to pray. We ask this in Jesus' Name, amen.
Today’s Bible verse Prov. 2:10-11 "When wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto thy soul: Discretion shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee."
Today’s quotes: Max Lucado – “If God is able to place the stars in their sockets and suspend the sky like a curtain—do you think it remotely possible God is able to guide your life? Could it be He is mighty enough to light your path?
Jesus said, “Look at the birds in the air. They don’t plant or harvest or store into barns, but your heavenly Father feeds them. Why do you worry about clothes?” Matthew 6:26. The next time a sunrise steals your breath, say nothing and listen as heaven whispers, “Do you like it? I did it just for you!”
Martin Wiles - Never assume you can handle all of life’s situations on your own. Keep in touch with the One who sees not only the present but also the future.
Some thoughts today: Who do people think you are? Where's your identity? How firm is your identity with God?
- We are born again into the Holy Nation of believers in Christ.
- We are priests and we can go between God and the world.
Tomorrow’s post: How to Stay Young Mary Southerland
A popular post:
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| I'm protected! |
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1938499999/ Link to Granny’s Guide to Marriage in
Verse my book with new title and cover for women contemplating
marriage.
#31 My Heart Goes
Out to You, My Dear
"My heart goes out to you, my dear
As you will look ahead.
Some things may cause you now to fear
But please trust God instead."
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