Bible Prep: Exodus 32; Ezekiel 22
What does "Stand in the gap" mean? We hear this statement about prayer and prayer warriors, but why? In ancient times, a wall was the best means of protection for a city. Just one breach in the wall allowed the enemy to break through and destroy anything in its path. So, defenders in the city would swarm to that location, hold the breach, and stand in the gap while the repairers of the wall secured the weak area. A breach left unattended and unrepaired resulted in the fall of the city.
The same is true with prayer. God calls us to "stand in the gap" through prayer and intercession. Two examples in the Bible of "standing in the gap" are Exodus 32 and Ezekiel 22. In both instances, the people rebelled against the Lord and deserved His judgment. Yet, He desired to pour out His mercy and grace in both situations.
In Ex. 32:9-10 God said, "I have seen this people, and indeed it is a stiff-necked people! Therefore, let Me alone, that My wrath may burn hot against them, and I may consume them." But Moses pleaded with God on behalf of the people. As a result, the Lord relented against the harm He said He would do against the people.
In Ez. 22:22, God was furious with His rebellious people who had sinned in Jerusalem, "As silver is melted in the midst of a furnace, so shall you be melted in its midst; then you shall know that I, the Lord, have poured out My fury." God's anger was evident. Yet, through His love and mercy, He said, "So, I sought for a man among them who would make a wall, and stand in the gap before Me on behalf of the land, that I should not destroy it; BUT I found NO ONE. Therefore, I have poured out My indignation on them and consumed them with My fire of wrath..." (Ez. 22:30-31. WOW! No one was prepared to stand in the gap on behalf of the nation, and the result was DESTRUCTION!
How amazing that one can make a difference! When God calls us to pray, we must heed His voice.
"Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much." James 5:16
Father,
Give us Your guidance and strength as we honestly confess our sins to You and to one another. Forgive us for the times we have failed to "stand in the gap" as You have called us to. Help us heed Your voice and pray as Your Spirit leads. Give us compassionate hearts as we pray for each other and our leaders across the country and the world. Rid us of judgment, condemnation, and pride, and fill us with a spirit of grace, mercy, and love. Create in our hearts a fervent desire to pray daily for Your leadership to reign in our lives. In Jesus' Holy Name, Amen. (part from "If My People" pg 14.)
Where is God calling you to "stand in the gap" on behalf of our nation? Faith, courage, and prayer birthed our great country and guided America through more than 200 years of wars, natural disasters, and national crises. The opportunity to pray is a privilege, honor, and sacrifice. The power of prayer is evident throughout the Bible. The effect it has on us individually and the impact it can have on nations are profound. Whenever we open our hearts to God, He hears our prayers and gives us direction. So, may we as a nation come together in prayer, humbly walk in God's ways, and earnestly seek His guidance.
From My Heart To Yours,
Carla McDougal
NOTE: I'm using the booklets "IF MY PEOPLE" and "PRAY FOR OUR NATION" as guides for each of these 40-Day Prayer Journey posts. You can order both booklets on Christianbook.com.