An elderly widow confined to a single location can reach across the world through intercession. An unknown person without a voice in society can release a flood of blessings on a city, a state, a nation. A prayer warrior estranged from a prodigal can right the course of their family lineage.

There is no distance in the Spirit. If we could see what we will one day see from eternity, we will be stunned by the fruit of our prayers. 

We know that Jesus is the Word and that He is true to His word. We simply need to understand the nature of His authority and believe that His word is a done deal.

Remember the Roman officer who came to Jesus and pleaded with Him for the healing of a servant who lay in bed, paralyzed and in terrible pain. Jesus responded, “I will come and heal him.” The officer said, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you come into my home. Just say the word from where you are, and my servant will be healed.”

Jesus was amazed. Turning to those who were following him, He said, “I tell you the truth, I haven’t seen faith like this in all Israel!” Jesus turned to the Roman officer and said, “Go back home. Because you believed, it has happened.’ And the young servant was healed that same hour” (see Matthew 8:5-13).

I wonder what this Roman officer contemplated as he traveled home. We know he understood the power of authority. He simply needed Jesus to speak the word. Like the officer, as you meet with Jesus and intercede, you are intervening on someone’s behalf. You are connecting them with Jesus and declaring what He speaks.

The “how, when, and where” a prayer is answered varies. But consider the authority Jesus delegated to you. Speak His word and believe Him, even if you don’t see the outcome right then. May Jesus be amazed at your faith.