1 Timothy 2:1 I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone—

My prayer list has dramatically increased.  The new expanded list is not simply for me.  It is for others.  I've decided that intercessory prayer is critically important for me and for others.  For me, praying for others help me to put my issues into perspective.  It also helps me to build compassion and love for those I'm not to happy with or those I could consider enemies.  We are called to bless our enemies. 

1 Peter 3:8-9 ⁸Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble. ⁹Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.

You know I’ve been saddened about the way some of us are behaving.  For a moment, I was feeling as if there was nothing more that I can do and the problem seems to be getting worse.  In last night’s Men’s U.S. Open final, Roger Federer got his name added to the list of those with unsportsmanlike confrontation with an official.  I was wrong.  I can do something; intercessory prayer is a powerful tool.  Now, my prayer for these people is simply that they be drawn closer to the Lord and that the Lord guides their steps, their actions and their words.  

I believe that the Word directs us to do precisely this

1 Timothy 2:1-5 ¹I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone— ²for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. ³This is good, and pleases God our Savior, ⁴who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. ⁵For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus,

When we pray for others, we should include those we love and know personally as well as others in need.  Today, I ask you to pray for Andrew, who has a significant health challenge.  I do know the power of prayer warrior networks and the power of God.  Matthew 18:20 For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them."  While we may not be together at the same location, we will be together in prayer.