Intercessory Prayer
Praying on behalf of others participates in God's work and expresses Christ-like love.
Paul frequently requested prayer and promised to pray for churches and individuals. Jesus intercedes for believers at God's right hand; Christians join this ministry. Intercessory prayer may be for healing, guidance, protection, salvation, or blessing. It expresses love through action—standing in the gap on behalf of another. Jesus modeled intercession in John 17, praying for disciples and all future believers. Paul's requests are specific — boldness, an open door, rescue from particular men. That is the usable model: name the person and the need. Regardless of mechanism, intercession shapes the one who prays.
I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people.
O. Hallesby taught that intercession is 'the most important work on this earth' because it connects human need with divine power.
First Epistle to Timothy