We underestimate the power of prayer.

So it came about when Moses held his hand up, that Israel prevailed, and when he let his hand down, Amalek prevailed.
But Moses’ hands were heavy. Then they took a stone and put it under him, and he sat on it; and Aaron and Hur supported his hands, one on one side and one on the other. Thus his hands were steady until the sun set.
So Joshua overwhelmed Amalek and his people with the edge of the sword. (‭Exodus‬ ‭17‬:‭11-13‬ NASB)

The people of Israel were under attack. Moses immediately implemented a strategy that was both natural and spiritual. He instructed Joshua to take practical steps to defend themselves on the battlefield; then Moses took spiritual steps by placing himself high on a mountain to intercede for the army as they fought.

Effective leaders initiate action in both the physical and the spiritual realms.

Moses’ position was one of intercession. With arms lifted as a spiritual “banner” of protection, Moses stood in the gap, fighting spiritually while Joshua was fighting physically.

There are people in your life who, today, are fighting battles. They’re resisting the attack of the enemy in areas such as sickness, financial stress, depression, fear, and broken relationships.

Although many of them may also be people of faith, who themselves call on the Lord, they need someone to intercede for them in order to experience breakthrough and victory.

An interesting facet of this story is that Moses’ own hands became heavy, and he found himself in need of support. The intercessor needed intercession!

Praying for others can become very heavy. In the spiritual realm an intercessor truly “bears the weight” of prayer. The old-school saints used to call it a “burden” for others.

Prayer warriors – especially those who have the gift of mercy, who empathize deeply with others – keep in mind that you cannot bear the weight alone. Even intercessors need intercession.

If prayer is one of the most powerful forces on earth, then imagine the exponential power when there is agreement and partnership in prayer!

Father,
Thank you for the privilege to pray for others. May my intercession become a banner of protection over Your people! And thank You for those whose hands of prayer are raised over me today.
In Jesus’ name, amen.