INTERCESSIONS

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Intercessions are prayers made on behalf of others.

It is said that intercessions change the person who is praying rather than God, since God already knows what is necessary.  But note that as long as Moses interceded, the Israelites were beating the Amelikites in battle.  When he ceased interceding, they started losing.  (Exodus 17:8-13) Abraham interceded for the city of Sodom when God stated his intention of destroying it.  Abraham pleaded with God asking him to relent if there were only 50 righteous men living there, and eventually bargained him down to only ten righteous men. (Genesis 18:22)

Since it is obvious that God doesn't need us to tell him what to do, these stories suggest that he may just be waiting for one human being to intercede for another.  But sure, if you express your care for another person, it will probably change you for the better. 

Perhaps the love expressed in your prayers is the raw material that God uses to produce good in the world.  We don't know, and in this world, we probably never will.

Scientists have tried to do blind tests for the efficacy of intercessory prayer, but they are inconclusive.  For God to provide conclusive proof of anything would be to destroy the meaning of faith. 

The Bible in full of intercessory prayer, however.  Christians everywhere do it and always have.  What other recommendation do you need?  Whatever the mechanism, intercessory prayer creates good in the world.

Consider taking time at least once a day for intercessions in your personal prayers.  You may be the one that God has been waiting for to ask for someone to be healed or helped in some way.
 

Methods

• When you do your intercessions, pray for family and friends, and for situations that concern you, then set your mind free.  If God wants you to pray for someone or something that you've missed, and you are being receptive, it will pop into your mind.  Not everytime, but sometimes, and seemingly out of nowhere.  Even if it never happens, you should always leave yourself open for it.
• You don't have to pray for the same people or things everyday.  You are not responsible for the entire universe.  If you would like to coordinate your international intercessions with other Anglicans, go to the Anglican Cycle of Prayer website at http://www.anglicancommunion.org/acp/main.cfm
• Mouthing the words won't work; you have to feel what you're saying.  Prayer may be mystical, but it's not magic.
• When you pray for someone you know, don't simply rattle off their name, picture them clearly in your mind.  You might even look at their photograph.
• If you are including someone in your prayers, let them know if you have an unobtrusive opportunity to do so.  The point is not to posture like a Hypocrite, but to let the person know that they are cared for and not forgotten. 
• Follow the advice of Jesus and be persistent in your prayers. (Luke 18:1-6)
• If you're unsure how to go about it, there's a format for intercessory prayer at the Quiet Spirit website  http://www.quietspirit.org.uk/Intercessions.htm