Who is qualified to stand in the gap?

         To "stand in the gap" comes from the Bible and refers to interceding on behalf of others before God, particularly in times of impending judgment. In Ezekiel 22:30, God laments that He looked for someone to stand in the gap for Israel but found none:

     “And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land, that I should not destroy it: but I found none.”

        This verse paints a picture of God’s desire for someone who could intervene through prayer, righteousness, and a heart of mercy. But not just anyone can stand in the gap. Let’s explore who qualified in Scripture.

1. Righteous Individuals

        The first and most important qualification is righteousness. In the Bible, righteousness means being in the right standing with God, living according to His commands, and being led by His Spirit. When God looked for someone to stand in the gap, He was not looking for someone with a title, but someone with a pure heart. James 5:16 says, “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”

        God listens to those who walk uprightly. When someone prays with a righteous heart, their intercession carries great weight in the spiritual realm.

Example: Noah

        In Genesis 6:9, Noah is described as a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time. Because of his righteousness, he found favor in God’s sight and was able to stand in the gap to preserve the human race from total destruction.

2. People of Faith

        Faith is essential in standing in the gap. Intercession requires believing that God hears and that He is able to act in response.

Example: Abraham

        In Genesis 18, Abraham intercedes for the city of Sodom. He boldly bargains with God, asking Him to spare the city if even ten righteous people are found. Abraham's faith and his close relationship with God enabled him to stand in the gap for a wicked city. Hebrews 11:6 says, “Without faith, it is impossible to please God.”

        A person standing in the gap must believe that their prayers can make a difference.

3. Intercessors with Compassion and Burden

        True intercession flows from a heart of love and compassion for others. When someone is deeply burdened for the salvation or deliverance of others, they are positioned to stand in the gap.

Example: Moses

        In Exodus 32, after the Israelites sinned by making a golden calf, God was ready to destroy them. Moses pleaded with God and said, “Yet now, if thou wilt forgive their sin... blot me, I pray thee, out of thy book...” (Exodus 32:32). His selfless love moved the heart of God, and He spared the people.

        This kind of intercession comes from a deep burden and willingness to lay down one’s life for others. Those who are willing to weep and plead before God on behalf of others are truly qualified to stand in the gap.

4. God-Appointed Leaders (Prophets and Priests)

        In the Old Testament, priests and prophets often had the role of standing in the gap. Priests made sacrifices for the sins of the people, and prophets called them to repentance and interceded on their behalf.

Example: Samuel

        In 1 Samuel 12:23, Samuel says, “God forbid that I should sin against the Lord in ceasing to pray for you.”

        Samuel saw intercession as a spiritual duty. This reveals that spiritual leaders are especially called to intercede for their communities.

5. Jesus Christ – The Perfect Intercessor

        Jesus is the ultimate example of someone who stood in the gap. He not only prayed for humanity, but He gave His life as the perfect sacrifice for sin. 1 Timothy 2:5 says, “For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.”

        Today, Jesus continues to intercede for us in heaven (Romans 8:34; Hebrews 7:25). Because of Him, believers can also be empowered to intercede for others.

Who Can Stand in the Gap Today?

        Today, anyone who:

● Is born again through faith in Jesus

● Lives righteously

● Has a heart of compassion

● Is willing to pray and fast for others

● Listens to the Holy Spirit

...can stand in the gap.

        God is still looking for men and women who will intercede for their families, communities, and nations. Will you answer the call?