The Prayer In Heaven

The Prayer in Heaven

He is sitting in the place of honor at God’s right hand, pleading for us. Romans 8:34

NOT MANY PEOPLE REALIZE that Jesus is praying for us, but it’s true. He is at the throne of God interceding—praying, substituting his own qualifications for ours, and advocating for us before the Father. So is the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:26-27). They are both having a conversation with the Father about what is good for us, what we need, what our purpose is (and has been from the foundation of the world), what challenges and obstacles we face, how we find our identity in Christ, and how we have believed and continue to believe. There is no discord in this conversation; it is “in harmony with God’s own will” (verse 27). It is a divine summit meeting on the state and direction of our lives, leading toward the best outcome for us now and forever.

That’s an amazing thought, but even more amazing is the invitation we’ve been given to enter into this conversation. The Trinity is not talking behind our backs. We are welcomed into the discussion. Our prayers are integral to God’s purposes for us, and the Father, Son, and Spirit enjoy hearing them. We can’t manipulate God to do what we want, but we can freely express our desires and discuss what’s on our hearts. We can also ask what’s on his heart. As we grow in understanding of his desires, our prayers are deepened, enriched, sometimes redirected, and always more fulfilling. In powerful agreement, we align them with the divine conversation going on. We come boldly to this throne of grace (Hebrews 4:16).

You have been given a relationship with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and relationships involve communication. You are therefore able to join this conversation as an interested party. It may take some time to get used to it, but do get used to it. Don’t barge in with a list of demands; ask God for some context. Relax and listen. Like a person arriving late to a meeting, try to get a sense of what’s going on before speaking up. Then speak up. Envision the Kingdom, pray for its increase, and influence your world by entering the court of your King.

If I could hear Christ praying for me . . . I would not fear a million enemies.