November 10

Standing in the Gap 

Today’s Scripture Readings: Psalm 119:153-160 | Ezekiel 21:1-22:31 | Hebrews 10:1-17 | Proverbs 27:12

Today’s Scripture Focus: Ezekiel 21:1-22:31

I looked for a man 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 none (Ezekiel 22:30 NIV).

What a haunting verse. I was looking for an intercessor, a prayer warrior, someone to stand in the gap, but I found none.

God accomplishes his kingdom purposes through the prayers of his people. The role of the intercessor–the one who stands in the gap–is not to be underestimated in the accomplishment of God’s plan.

Moses stood in the gap on behalf of Israel earlier–and God spared them. But in Ezekiel’s day there was no one who like Moses could intercede on their behalf. How incredibly sad.

What about for your church? Your nation? The peoples of this world? Is there someone to stand in the gap?

God is raising up an army of intercessors for these days. The work of proclaiming the gospel to each people group is ongoing, but there is much work to be done. Some are enlisted to go and preach. Others will do the equally hard and important work of intercession. Some will labor on the fields, others will stand in the gap on their behalf doing battle on their knees.

Don’t underestimate the importance and need of intercession. God is looking for those who will stand in the gap in this day. May he never be able to say, “I looked for someone to stand in the gap and I found none.”

Lord, here I am. Help me to be sensitive to the prayer burdens you give. Help me to persevere in prayer to see your will accomplished. Help me to watch and pray. For your glory. Amen.