Stand In The Gap

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. Ezekiel 22:30 (NKJV)

God is searching for people to stand in the gap on behalf of their nations. What does it mean to stand in the gap? This verse in Ezekiel points to creating a wall, or a hedge, something to surround and protect the nation. Then it speaks of standing in the gap, or any portion of the wall that may be broken down or have a hole in it.

In the Old Testament, this usually referred to building a physical wall, or barrier, to keep the enemy out. Now, the New Testament times, we are not building physical walls, but spiritual ones. We do this with prayer and intercession. To intercede means to stand on behalf of another, to petition God for the needs of another, to pray for someone or something other than ourselves.

We are living in a time in which prayer is critical. Intercession is needed now more than ever. We can stand and pray for the protection of our nations, and we must do so. While we can see enemies in the natural, our real fight is against spiritual enemies. Prayer and using our authority in Christ is the way to build and reinforce walls to keep the enemy out.

I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; I Timothy 2:1-3 (NKJV)

We must also pray and intercede for those in leadership. The way to guarantee a good future for our nations is to elect godly leaders and pray for them.

We can participate in government by voting and even by holding office. We can participate in peaceful protests to stand for godly values. These are good and even needful things. However, it must be initiated and undergirded by prayer. Without prayer and intercession, we cannot expect to be successful for long.

The future of our nations and the destiny of coming generations depends on our faithfulness to pray and intercede and stand in the gap now. Without us lifting up our nations, we cannot expect righteousness and justice to prevail. God needs us to pray. He is looking for those who will intercede. Answer His call. Make a wall and stand in the gap today.