The biblical practice of united prayer is one of the most powerful principles for spiritual breakthrough. Sadly, this awesome power is often neglected by individuals and couples. Yet there is good news in the fact united prayer is not out of reach for any believer, group or family. A process I call the “united prayer blitz” combines several biblical principles in one dynamic process (A more detailed description is in the resource, “Powerful Prayer for Every Family”).
Over many years, we have seen phenomenal breakthroughs in married couples or small groups who embraced a prayer blitz of united agreement. In many cases, they had tried everything else, and their situations seemed hopeless. God has made incredible promises about the power of intensified prayer, fasting and united agreement (Jer. 29:13; Matt. 17:20-21; Acts 12:5-12; James 5:16).
A practical process for prayer blitz breakthroughs
1. A married couple, friends or group agrees to dedicate a certain period of time to give special focus to praying for needed breakthroughs. The specified period can be a few days, a period of weeks or as long as God leads.
2. It is vitally important to embrace thorough spiritual cleansing at the beginning (and throughout) the special period of prayer focus. We must never underestimate the importance of praying with cleansed hearts (Ps. 66:18; James 5:16).
3. Couples or groups may agree to utilize fasting. One method is to miss the noon meal and give that time to prayer. Spirit-led fasting is often a powerful tool for increasing the impact of prayer (Matt. 17:21). While it should never be viewed as legalism to “earn” God’s favor, it is a point of obedience. Jesus didn’t say “if you fast;” He said “when” (Matt. 6:16).
4. Many couples or groups may ask others to join them in praying for their specific need during the specified time of focus (Matt. 18:19). A practical approach is to ask them to take a moment to pray for your need at certain times of the day (e.g., breakfast, lunch, bedtime, etc.). It is important to prayerfully consider who we ask to join in the united prayer blitz. A prayer blitz will only be as powerful as the prayers and faithfulness of those who are in it!
5. It is especially powerful when couples make a commitment to meet periodically for corporate prayer with their prayer partners. Regular meetings also add the element of accountability. The meetings can be weekly or as often as agreed. There is enormous power in such united agreement. (Matt. 18:19; Acts 2:1, etc.). Jonathan Edwards called it “explicit agreement and visible union in extraordinary prayer.”
6. As the prayer blitz proceeds, be sensitive to any promises or insights God reveals to guide your praying. Praying God’s revealed promises brings vastly increased power and faith into our intercession. We should also seek God’s wisdom in identifying and tearing down specific strongholds in those for whom we are praying (2 Cor. 10:3-5; 2 Pet. 1:4).
7. Don’t give up! Persistence is an often neglected principle in breakthrough praying (Matt. 18:1-9; Luke 11:5). Great victories often require significant time and great fervency. Some prayers take years, and we should not become condemned or discouraged if answers do not come quickly. It is also the nature of spiritual battle to sometimes see things get worse before they get better. Let us ever keep our eyes on Jesus, not our problems (Heb. 12:2).
For more information on “Powerful Prayer for Every Family,” visit www.frizzellministries.org.
