Day 17: Fasting and the Power of Intercession

by Ron Eivaz, posted in Uncategorized

“I searched for someone among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found no one.” – Ezekiel 22:30

Fasting and prayer are powerful acts of intercession, allowing us to stand in the gap for others. When we fast, we bring the needs of our families, communities, and nations before God, pleading for His mercy, intervention, and blessing. Intercessory prayer is a selfless expression of love and faith, as we align our hearts with God’s will and ask Him to move on behalf of others.

On this seventeenth day of fasting, let’s focus on the transformative power of intercession and how our prayers can change lives and circumstances.

What is Intercession?

Intercession is the act of praying on behalf of someone else. It involves standing in the gap between God and a person, situation, or nation, asking for His intervention, guidance, and mercy. Ezekiel 22:30 reveals God’s desire for intercessors—people who are willing to pray for others and invite His presence into their lives.

When we intercede, we are participating in God’s redemptive work. Our prayers become a bridge through which His power, grace, and love flow into the lives of those we are praying for.

Fasting Amplifies Intercession

Fasting enhances the power of intercession by sharpening our spiritual focus and increasing our sensitivity to the Holy Spirit. When we fast, we humble ourselves and set aside distractions, allowing us to pray with greater clarity, urgency, and faith.

Biblical examples show us how fasting and intercession work together:

  1. Esther’s Fast: Queen Esther called for a three-day fast when her people were in danger of annihilation. Through fasting and intercession, God delivered the Jewish people and turned their mourning into joy (Esther 4:16, 9:1).
  2. Daniel’s Fast: Daniel fasted and prayed for the restoration of Israel, confessing the sins of his people and asking God to fulfill His promises (Daniel 9:3-19). His intercession brought angelic revelation and divine answers.
  3. Moses’ Intercession: Moses fasted and interceded for Israel after they sinned by worshiping the golden calf. His prayers spared the nation from God’s wrath (Exodus 32:11-14, 34:28).

These stories remind us that fasting and intercession can bring about divine intervention and change the course of history.

Who Should We Intercede For?

Fasting and intercession open the door for us to pray for a wide range of needs, including:

  1. Family and Loved Ones: Pray for salvation, healing, and restoration in your family. Lift up specific needs, such as financial provision, emotional healing, or reconciliation.
  2. The Church: Pray for spiritual revival, unity, and boldness within your church and the global body of Christ. Ask God to raise up leaders and empower His people to fulfill the Great Commission.
  3. Your Community: Intercede for your city, neighborhood, or workplace. Pray for peace, justice, and the salvation of those who do not know Christ.
  4. Your Nation: Stand in the gap for your nation, asking God to guide its leaders, heal divisions, and bring spiritual awakening.
  5. The World: Pray for the nations, especially those facing persecution, poverty, or war. Ask God to send laborers into the harvest and to spread His Gospel to the ends of the earth.

Practical Steps for Intercessory Fasting

  1. Identify Specific Needs: Write down the names of people, groups, or situations you want to pray for during your fast. Be specific and intentional in your prayers.
  2. Pray Scripture: Use God’s Word as the foundation of your prayers. For example, pray 2 Chronicles 7:14 for your nation or Psalm 91 for protection over your loved ones.
  3. Stand in Faith: Trust that your prayers make a difference, even if you don’t see immediate results. Remember, God is working behind the scenes.
  4. Fast with Purpose: Dedicate your fast to interceding for others, setting aside time each day to pray for their needs.
  5. Stay Persistent: Intercession often requires perseverance. Keep praying and fasting, believing that God hears and answers your prayers.

Reflection Questions

  • Who has God placed on your heart to intercede for during this fast?
  • Are there specific Scriptures you can use to guide your prayers?
  • How can you make intercession a regular part of your spiritual life, even after the fast?

Intercession is a powerful expression of love and faith, and fasting amplifies its impact. As you continue this journey, trust that God is using your prayers to bring transformation and healing to the lives of those you are standing in the gap for. Let today be a reminder of the privilege and power of interceding for others.

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