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I exhort… that first of all, prayers and giving of thanks be made for all people (1 Timothy 2:1)

Picture this—a large piece of driftwood on the shore of a quiet lake. Three people are sitting on the driftwood, arms around each other, looking out at the lake. You are the one in the middle. Jesus is on the right, and on the left is the loved one for whom you have been praying for a long time.

A beautiful picture of companionship. Could this be a representation of you standing in the gap between your loved one and Jesus? Praying, imploring Jesus on their behalf? This is part of God’s plan for us as believers! As Moses did in Exodus 32:11, we are called to intercede, to plead with God. 1 Timothy 2:1 says, “I exhort… that first of all, prayers and giving of thanks be made for all people.”

But don’t read on until you consider this: “He is able to save forever those who come to God through Him [Jesus], since he always lives to intercede and intervene on their behalf with God.” (Hebrews 7:25). Is there a different “driftwood seating plan?” What kind of seating plan does this imply? Where is Jesus sitting?

While, then, you are interceding to Jesus on behalf of that special person, as we are commanded to do, consider two things:

  1. Remember Jesus is making intercession on their behalf: “Jesus is at the right hand of God and is interceding for us.” Romans 8:34
  2. Pray that your loved one comes to Jesus themselves: “He [the one for whom you’re praying] will call upon Me, and I will answer him.” Psalm 91:15

So sit between your loved one and Jesus, and keep praying. Pray that they come to Jesus. And let Jesus sit beside them, too, remembering He is interceding on their behalf and yours.And finally, think about this: There is a THIRD seating plan. Can you picture it? Maybe one day, this seating plan will come to pass. What a glorious answer to prayer that would be!Picture the driftwood, the lake, the people. Ask Jesus what this means for your prayer life. Wait quietly to hear what He has to say. And don’t lose hope! The King of Kings is praying!

SM