The Best Christian Books on Intercessory Prayer

Prayer is one of the most powerful gifts God has given us. Through prayer, we can draw near to His presence, hear His voice, and invite His will to be done on earth as it is in heaven. But there is a special kind of prayer that goes beyond our own needs—intercessory prayer.

Intercession is standing in the gap for others, lifting up their needs, struggles, and battles before the throne of grace. It is an act of love, compassion, and spiritual warfare.

For instance, Philippians 4:6-7 encourages believers to present their requests to God through prayer, promising peace that transcends understanding. Similarly, 1 Timothy 2:1 emphasizes the significance of intercessory prayer, urging believers to offer prayers and supplications for all people.

If you’ve ever felt called to pray for your family, church, or even nations, you know the weight and privilege of intercession. Thankfully, there are many powerful Christian books that can help guide you, strengthen your faith, and ignite your passion for prayer. Here are some of the best books on intercessory prayer that every believer should read:

Top Books on Intercessory Prayer

1. “Intercessory Prayer: How God Can Use Your Prayers to Move Heaven and Earth” by Dutch Sheets

Dutch Sheets’ “Intercessory Prayer” is a foundational work that explains the biblical basis for intercession. Sheets combines theological depth with practical guidance, offering readers insight into how their prayers can have a profound impact on the world. His personal stories and biblical examples inspire confidence in the power of prayer. Read more

2. “With Christ in the School of Prayer” by Andrew Murray

A classic in Christian literature, Andrew Murray’s “With Christ in the School of Prayer” explores the teachings of Jesus on prayer.

Murray’s deep spiritual insights and practical advice make this book an enduring guide for anyone looking to develop a more intimate and effective prayer life. His gentle wisdom encourages believers to persist in prayer. Read more

3. “The Circle Maker: Praying Circles Around Your Biggest Dreams and Greatest Fears” by Mark Batterson

Mark Batterson’s “The Circle Maker” is an inspiring read that encourages believers to pray bold, audacious prayers.

Drawing from the story of Honi the Circle Maker, Batterson illustrates how persistent, faith-filled prayers can lead to miraculous breakthroughs. His engaging writing style and practical examples make this book both motivating and accessible. Read more

4. “Rees Howells: Intercessor” by Norman Grubb

“Rees Howells: Intercessor” by Norman Grubb is a compelling biography that chronicles the life of Rees Howells, a man devoted to intercessory prayer.

This book provides a powerful testament to the impact of dedicated prayer and faith, showcasing miraculous answers to prayer and the significant changes wrought by Howells’ intercession. Read more

5. “The Power of a Praying Wife” by Stormie Omartian

Stormie Omartian’s “The Power of a Praying Wife” is a manual on the transformative power of intercessory prayer within marriage.

While focused on praying for a spouse, the principles Omartian shares are applicable to interceding for anyone. Her personal anecdotes and scripturally based prayers make this book a valuable resource for deepening your prayer life. Read more

6. “The Intercessors Handbook: How to Pray with Boldness, Authority, and Supernatural Power” by Jennifer Eivaz

Jennifer Eivaz’s “The Intercessors Handbook” provides practical tools and strategies for effective intercession. Eivaz’s teaching combines biblical principles with personal experience, guiding readers on how to pray with authority and tap into the supernatural power of prayer. This book is particularly useful for those seeking to enhance their spiritual warfare through prayer. Read more

7. “Praying God’s Word: Breaking Free from Spiritual Strongholds” by Beth Moore

Beth Moore’s “Praying God’s Word” offers scriptural prayers to help believers overcome spiritual strongholds. Moore’s compassionate and insightful writing helps readers use the Bible as a powerful tool in their prayer life, providing prayers that address common struggles and encourage freedom through Christ. Read more

8. “Destined for the Throne: How Spiritual Warfare Prepares the Bride of Christ for Her Eternal Destiny” by Paul E. Billheimer

Paul E. Billheimer’s “Destined for the Throne” explores the significant role of intercessory prayer in spiritual warfare.

Billheimer’s work emphasizes the believer’s authority in Christ and the importance of prayer in fulfilling God’s purposes. This book is both challenging and empowering, encouraging believers to engage deeply in prayer. Read more

9. “Shaping History Through Prayer and Fasting” by Derek Prince

Derek Prince’s “Shaping History Through Prayer and Fasting” highlights the combined power of prayer and fasting. Prince provides biblical examples and personal testimonies to illustrate how these spiritual disciplines can bring about significant change. This book is a compelling call to action for those serious about intercession. Read more

10. “The Prophetic Intercessor: Releasing God’s Purposes to Change Lives and Influence Nations” by James W. Goll

James W. Goll’s “The Prophetic Intercessor” explores the intersection of intercession and prophetic ministry. Goll provides practical insights on hearing God’s voice and praying His will into existence.

This book is an excellent resource for those who feel called to a deeper level of intercession and prophetic prayer. Read more

11. “Possessing the Gates of the Enemy: A Training Manual for Militant Intercession” by Cindy Jacobs

Cindy Jacobs’ “Possessing the Gates of the Enemy” is a comprehensive guide on strategic intercession.

Jacobs provides practical training on spiritual warfare, teaching readers how to stand in the gap for others effectively. Her extensive experience in prayer ministry makes this a valuable resource for serious intercessors. Read more

12. “Prayer Shield: How to Intercede for Pastors, Christian Leaders, and Others on the Spiritual Frontlines” by C. Peter Wagner

C. Peter Wagner’s “Prayer Shield” focuses on the importance of interceding for those in leadership positions.

Wagner offers practical advice on how to support pastors and Christian leaders through prayer, emphasizing the need for a dedicated team of intercessors to cover them. Read more

13. “The Essential Guide to Prayer: How to Pray with Power and Effectiveness” by Dutch Sheets

Dutch Sheets’ “The Essential Guide to Prayer” is a comprehensive manual that covers various types of prayer, including intercession.

Sheets provides a step-by-step approach to developing a powerful prayer life, making this book an excellent resource for both new and seasoned believers. Available

14. “Intercessory Prayer Study Guide” by Dutch Sheets

This study guide accompanies Dutch Sheets’ book “Intercessory Prayer” and is perfect for individual or group study. It includes chapter summaries, discussion questions, and practical exercises to help readers apply the principles of intercessory prayer in their lives. Read more

15. “The Power of Persistent Prayer: Praying With Greater Purpose and Passion” by Cindy Jacobs

Cindy Jacobs’ “The Power of Persistent Prayer” encourages believers to develop a steadfast prayer life. Jacobs shares personal stories and biblical insights to inspire readers to persist in prayer, emphasizing the importance of tenacity in seeing God’s purposes fulfilled. Read more

16. “Prayers That Outwit the Enemy: Making God’s Word Your First Line of Defense” by Chuck D. Pierce and Rebecca Wagner Sytsema

In “Prayers That Outwit the Enemy,” Chuck D. Pierce and Rebecca Wagner Sytsema provide strategic prayers to counter spiritual attacks. This book combines scriptural declarations with practical guidance, making it a powerful tool for those engaged in spiritual warfare. Read more

17. “The Watchman on the Wall: Daily Devotions for Praying God’s Word Over Those You Love” by Dr. James W. Goll

James W. Goll’s “The Watchman on the Wall” is a daily devotional designed to help believers pray God’s Word over their loved ones. Goll offers scriptural prayers and reflections to guide readers in becoming vigilant and effective watchmen in prayer. Read more

18. “Intercession: The Power and Passion to Shape History” by Jim W. Goll

Jim W. Goll’s “Intercession” explores the transformative power of intercessory prayer. Goll provides biblical foundations, historical examples, and practical insights to inspire readers to engage in prayer that can change the course of history. Read more

19. “Intercessory Worship: Combining Worship and Prayer to Touch the Heart of God” by Dick Eastman

Dick Eastman’s “Intercessory Worship” combines the principles of worship and intercession, showing how they can be integrated to touch God’s heart.

Eastman provides practical advice on developing a lifestyle of worshipful intercession, making this book a unique addition to any prayer library. Read more

20. “The Secrets of Intercessory Prayer: Unleashing God’s Power in the Lives of Those You Love” by Jack Hayford

Jack Hayford’s “The Secrets of Intercessory Prayer” is a comprehensive guide on how to pray effectively for others.

Hayford combines biblical principles with practical advice, offering readers insights on how to unleash God’s power through prayer. His compassionate and experienced approach makes this book an essential resource for anyone serious about intercession. Read more

21.“The Battle Plan for Prayer” by Stephen and Alex Kendrick

‘The Battle Plan for Prayer’ is an exceptional resource that underscores the importance of structured and strategic prayer. The authors, known for their work on the film War Room, offer a systematic approach to prayer that is both accessible and profound.

Kendricks emphasize the power of prayer in overcoming life’s battles, providing readers with actionable steps to develop a disciplined and victorious prayer life. This book is filled with personal stories and scriptural references that inspire and guide readers in their spiritual journeys. Read more

Why These Books Matter

Intercessory prayer is more than a spiritual practice—it is a calling to partner with God in transforming lives, families, communities, and nations. These books will teach you how to pray with greater authority, faith, and persistence. Most importantly, they will remind you that when you intercede, you are never praying alone—Christ Himself intercedes with you.

So if your heart is stirred to pray for others, let these books be your training ground, your encouragement, and your guide. God is raising up intercessors in this generation, and you could be one of them.

✨ “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” – James 5:16