A REQUEST. Hebrews 13:18-19 Besides the sacrifice of praise, giving liberally to meet the needs of others, and showing respect and obedience to those who lead us, there is also the need for earnest prayer as intercessors. The writer had learned the value of prayer. This is one reason some think Paul wrote this book. He knew prayer was no empty form and didn’t hesitate to ask the Romans, Thessalonians, Ephesians, and Colossians to pray for him. The first account of him after his conversion is “behold, he prayeth.” When he went into missionary work with Barnabas, it was with prayer. He prayed at midnight in prison in Philippi. When he parted with the Ephesians, he prayed.
If I don’t live honestly, I can’t be sincere in asking the Lord for help and guidance. When we pray, we count on God to do what He is able to do “exceedingly abundantly.” Two conditions are needed when prayer is requested: [1] a good conscience – inward, [2] good conduct – outward. Consideration for others and intercession on their behalf are evidence of a mature Christian who truly believes that God answers prayer. Again, we have a glimpse of who the writer may be. Timothy had been imprisoned and was released, and the writer was asking for prayer so both could come to see those to whom the letter was written.
When one recognizes the value and effectiveness of prayer, it will not be long before specific needs come to mind: a delay in visiting a certain assembly; the physical, spiritual, and emotional needs of people under stress; leaders who are being criticized; the dangers of pride, discouragement, depression, and attacks; the need for guidance and for accepting responsibility. Intercessory prayer for leaders of nations, assemblies, and families is a constant need.
The sacrifice of prayer and supplication with thanksgiving requires consideration, understanding, and time. Our life in the Holiest is not a life of luxury and relaxation but one of self-denial, self- sacrifice, and faithful intercession for others. Our Lord Jesus Christ entered with the blood of His own sacrifice. We enter with praise, thanksgiving, confession, good works of obedience, and submission to those who watch over our souls. All this can be done “Through Him.”
Our access to God is “through Him;” our acceptance by God is “through Him;” our sacrifices are made acceptable “through Him;” and our whole life should be one of sacrifice “through Him.” Our praise and confessions of faith, love, and benevolence; humility and submission; prayer and intercession – these are all “Through Him.” Intercessory prayer is acceptable at all seasons on behalf of others, with earnest supplication, thanksgiving, and stated objectives in view.
Paul, the apostle, requested the intercession of God’s people in several assemblies. He asked them to pray for him when he preached (“utterance”), that he might say the right words in the right way. He asked for prayer that the word of the Lord would “have free course (no hindrances)” and “be glorified.” He asked that they pray for his preservation amid persecution. He also asked that he might be able to visit those who had prayed for him.