Using Scripture for Intercessory Prayer

Last week, I received a phone call from a friend, Susan, who used to live in Vincennes,  where we lived before moving to Fishers.

We taught together at Vincennes University, shared an office for a semester, and developed a friendship that included studying God's word and praying for each other.

When Mike was appointed to serve a church in Fishers, we corresponded frequently and continued to pray for each other and our families. Over the years, the number of letters declined as she moved and purchased a winter home out of state. We kept in touch on birthdays and at Christmas.

Her call came unexpectedly, but with joy. We talked and caught up on our families and places in life. Her main purpose for contacting me was to ask for prayer when she had surgery the following week. She chose two scriptures to guide her through the days of hospitalization and recovery.

Praying with Scripture

"I'll pray for you using the scripture. We will be united before God," I said.

She liked my idea and gave me these two passages:

Psalm 34:4 - "I prayed to the Lord and he answered me; he freed me from all my fears."

Nahum 1:7 - "The Lord is good; he protects his people in times of trouble."

When I brought Susan's name to God each day, I prayed the scripture inserting her name.

Psalm 34:4 - "Susan prayed to the Lord and he answered her; he freed her from all her fears."

Nahum 1:7 - "The Lord is good; he protects Susan, his child, in times of trouble."

Praying for Susan

Praying for Susan using scripture helped me connect with her and with God in a way that added depth to our friendship and closeness to God during her time of need. I was honored to pray using words God gave her.

Next time someone asks me to pray for him or her, I plan to ask them if there is a scripture to which he/she feels close. I will use those words as I remember them daily.

Even though Susan lives five hours away, I feel close to her heart and united in prayer.

Prayer: Loving and caring God, you give us many ways to come to you. Thank you for reminding me that I can pray for others using your holy word. Amen.