God’s people had become defiled by idols, and their detestable practices brought them to a place of judgment. Still, God looked for someone to build up the wall and stand in the gap. Today, God continues to seek those who will set aside their own agendas, pray for others in spiritual warfare, petition the Father on their behalf, and build a wall of protection around them.

What does it mean to build up the wall or hedge? Walls and hedges are built to keep enemies out. They act as a defense, much like a shield. Righteous living, study, prayer and fasting, worship, service, confession, repentance, and the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives fortify us. These practices strengthen the wall of protection around us and others, shielding against the enemy’s influence and tactics that could lead to destruction.

Standing in the gap for others means petitioning and warring on their behalf to break the enemy’s plans and weapons aimed at their destruction. Like a guard, we must suit up, remain vigilant, and petition God for His intervention to protect them from the enemy’s weapons and guide them into His kingdom.

This is similar to Nehemiah’s wall-building. In Nehemiah 4:17-23, “Those who built on the wall, and those who carried burdens, loaded themselves so that with one hand they worked at construction, and with the other held a weapon.” The people with Nehemiah were busy fortifying the wall to keep the enemy out, while also armed and ready to defend the wall and the city within.

Dear Heavenly Father, I want to be one who "stands in the gap" for others, to help fortify the walls around my brothers and sisters in Christ. Teach me how to pray and help me understand what spiritual warfare is. I ask for the wisdom and fortitude to be watchful at the walls and to pray unceasingly with all prayers and supplications for all saints. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Create a prayer list of those God places on your heart to intercede for. Continually update it to pray effectively in real time. Some may require follow-up, showing care in action. Praise God for each small win. Keep praying for them until a breakthrough comes.