A lot of people’s prayers are prayed as a response to attacks and adversities in life. I am thankful that when life deals you its worst blow, there is real help that can be accessed through prayer. However, prayer does not have to just be a response to what is going wrong. Prayer can pave the way for God’s plan ahead of the enemies’ attacks. Simply stated, prayer can be a preemptive strike against the enemy’s plans. Jesus prayed such a prayer regarding His disciple Peter in Luke 22:31. Jesus said, “Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift each of you like wheat. 32 But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith will not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.””

Jesus did not wait for Peter’s failure to pray for Him. Jesus prayed to prepare Peter for what was coming. The enemy of your soul is predictable. According to John 10:10 he is out to kill, steal, and destroy God’s plan for you and for those you love. Therefore, you can pray preemptive prayers to thwart the enemies’ intention in your life and in the lives of those God has entrusted to you. Jesus preemptively prayed His plan over the devil’s intention. You don’t have to know the exact attack that is on the horizon to begin to pray His plan over your life.

Part of the meaning of the word “intercession” means to “strike against.” Praying preemptive prayers allows you to strike against the work of devil and welcome the work of God. You must pray preemptive prayers claiming what God wants to do in your city, in your church, and in your family.

Today’s Challenge: You do not have to always operate one step behind the enemy’s attack. You are not required to live your life at the mercy of his intention. You can strike against his intention by praying God’s plan over your life and the lives of those you love. Take time today and pray preemptive prayers over your life.