Holy in the Daily

Blog posts to help women over 50 face their challenges with clarity, confidence, and resilience.

Get your 1st BURST OF CLARITY NOW.

Join over 800 women on my email list who applaud my FREE eBooks and refreshing, actionable lessons.

Prophetic Intercession Roles of Supplicant, Warrior, and Watchman

For the third post in our series on prophetic intercession, I want to share briefly about what it means to be a supplicant, warrior, and watchman in prayer. To start, here’s a personal story:

Holding my baby close, I paced the floor, praying. His fever was high as I again petitioned the Lord to bring relief to my son. This was the second night in a row I had been up with him. Somehow, I knew this sickness was a spiritual attack against our fledgling ministry in a church where witches had attended our first service.

Turning again toward the living room, I saw a vision of a bright ball of light in the hallway. As I walked toward it repeating the name of Jesus, it darted over to the window.

Still holding my baby, I again approached it in the name of Jesus. The light ball left by way of the window. Immediately, my baby slept peacefully without a fever.

The intercession I had done that night tied together two abilities: the ability to perceive things in the spirit realm and the ability to petition the Lord for healing. A simple act of spiritual warfare brought my intercession to a close. My task was completed and my baby was healed.

The Bible gives us three pictures to help us better understand the task of an intercessor. The first is of a man standing in the gap as a supplicant, the second is of a warrior, and the third is the illustration of a watchman.

From my book Intercessors, God’s End-time Vanguard—How to Pray Effectively For the Things That Matter Most

Standing in the gap in prophetic intercession

In Ezekiel’s time, the Lord used the illustration of broken walls to describe Israel’s spiritual rebellion, sin, and corruption. The nation’s spiritual walls had huge gaps that resulted in the invasion of unholy philosophies and practices. Israel needed someone to stand in the gap, plead for mercy, and rebuild her spiritual walls, but there was no intercessor. The Lord said,

I looked for a man among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found none (Ezekiel 22:30 NIV).

Francis Frangipane has described a gap as the distance between the way things are and the way things ought to be. There are many situations in peoples’ lives and in the life of a nation where gaps appear. Sometimes these breaches are caused by personal sin; other times they are the result of another’s sin. Demonic bombardment often assails the walls of those called to proclaim the gospel.

It is an intercessor’s task to stand in the gap to plead for God’s mercy and intervention and to fight as spiritual warriors against the invasion of evil. The first is called supplication; the second is spiritual warfare.

The supplicant in prophetic intercession

Supplication can be described as asking or petitioning another for mercy. Intercessors stand before the throne of God and ask for his intervention in the affairs of men. Psalm 106:23 gives us the example of Moses as a supplicant for the nation of Israel:

So he said he would destroy them, had not Moses, his chosen one, stood in the breach before him to keep his wrath from destroying them (NIV).

The warrior in prophetic intercession

The second purpose of an intercessor who stands in the gap is that of spiritual warfare. In this arena intercessors do not face God in prayer as they did in supplication. They turn and face the forces of evil and war against them. The warrior’s role is one of enforcing Christ’s victory, which was won at Calvary.

The watchman in prophetic intercession

As intercessors, many of us watch upon the spiritual walls of our families, keeping vigil against an unseen enemy. Through the eyes of the spirit, we are able to sight impending danger and sound an alarm when needed. Sometimes there is a gap in the wall where stones have shifted and fallen into disarray. At that point we must leave our watchtower, stand in the gap, and engage in spiritual warfare.

Watchmen also have the privilege of announcing the arrival of important ambassadors and dignitaries (see Isaiah 52:7, 8). Two New Testament watchmen saw the coming of the Messiah and, on the day of His arrival in Jerusalem, both Anna and Simeon announced His entry to all who would listen (see Luke 2:25-38). The promise of a Messiah, given so long before, had finally arrived in the form of a baby.

The role of a watchman involves both watching for danger and announcing the arrival of the promises of God. God sets watchmen in their places upon the walls, and He requires that they take their job seriously (see Isaiah 62:6, 7).

Well, that’s it for today. Which task of an intercessor are you most comfortable in—supplicant, warrior, or watchman? I’d love to hear from you in the comment section below, Susan

For more on how to operate as a watchman, warrior, or supplicant, see Chapter 7 of Intercessors, God’s End-time Vanguard-How to Pray Effectively For the Things That Matter Most.

Related posts:

Behind the Scenes and Center Stage With Prophetic Intercession

Getting Comfortable With Prophetic Intercession and Prophetic Acts

“Jesus likes it when we share.” -Adelaide, age 3: Pass this along to everybody and their brother. OK, maybe not everybody’s brother, but you know . . . all of your friends would be nice.

Share this post with your friends: 

This Post Has 30 Comments

  1. Lilly

    I have been doing it all, I think, that and the crying part; but delineated like this, it really becomes crystal clear. Good post!

    1. Patrick Jones

      Well the Lord just told me that I am a watchman warrior whos is to intercess in prayer in the spirit realms and preach, prophecy, fight spiriteuly and love them and save them.So but thanks so much for helping me so myself in the role that I am.you be blessed 😃🔥❤️‍🔥🙌

  2. Susan

    Thanks Lilly. Glad you found it helpful. I can relate to your comment about crying. That seems to be woven into so much of intercession for some of us.

  3. cindy king

    i find myself being a warrior in emergency situations and being surprised . i remember once when i was not ready ,but went right into prayer and worship with no time to spare , the spirit of the lord is so great that way with lots of peace ,but power with prayer and thank you jesus,im off and singing ,with my sword drawn and my shield up , and not afraid like i thought i would be . but of course after it was over crying ,but rejoicing in the victory in jesus …. yeahhhhh

    1. Susan

      What an awesome experience, Cindy. Thanks for sharing it.

  4. April Brewin

    Thank you for this post. I think I have done all of the above but sometimes feel quite isolated because of my gifting. Presently I feel a pull on the warrior side of things but I find it quite physically, emotionally and spiritually draining. I think this is because I am also a burden bearer and i can feel quite heavy with it. I hope with time that I will be able to walk with joy in this gift.

    1. Susan Gaddis

      Most intercessor’s feel much like you do at times, April, so you aren’t alone. It is just such a behind the scenes job and the prayer closet does get lonely. I provide some tips on how to walk comfortably in the call of intercession in my book, Intercessors, God’s End-time Vanguard. You might find it helpful. Blessings to you as you grow in your calling, Susan

  5. Boris Foong

    your article has given the zeal to an intercessor for God

    1. Susan Gaddis

      Good to know you’re out there praying! Thank you.
      Susan

  6. Boris Foong

    Thank you, Susan!

  7. Gwen M

    Hello Susan,
    Truly thanking our Lord Jesus for leading and directing me to your website. I began “Again” about 2 wks ago, to focus again more intently on my gifting in prophetic Intercession, as I was directed back by a simple Word of the Lord given to me, to take “one day” and sit in His Presence,worshiping and praising Him. And that I would receive His answers to so many issues that were “distressing me” and had successfully pulled me through much distraction and chaos in my family ( oldest son, living with me for the past 3yrs, and his divorce,and stressful communication with his ex-wife over his bi-weekly Court ordered visitation, and the sadness and distress of my son and my grandchildren in the midst of it all. I found myself, “bearing their “heart-ache for these 3yrs. But Glory to God, as I sat in His Presence, that glorious day, my Abba, delivered me, I cast Every care,worry, concern, EVERYTHING INTO HIS HANDS, AND HE INSTRUCTED ME TO DO SO DAILY, TO MAINTAIN MY “FREEDOM” in His Presence and in the Spirit!!! Glory to God!! He reminded me of His calling upon my life to minister unto Him in my Prayer Closet,Sanctuary of the Most High God,and as I remain before Him, I will receive His Peace,the holy Peace of Jesus that surpasses All Understanding ( All Human Understanding) I would receive His Strength,Joy and everything I need to face tomorrow, to pray for myself and others He brings across my path. I felt impressed of His Holy Spirit to “study my calling and gift and He has lead me so graciously to Your Website, and I have encountered His Holy Peace and joy here.
    Thank You for all you have done and all you are doing in obedience to Him and His calling on your life to help us as Intercessors, along the way. I have a desire to create a Website for Godly widows, and those seeking Christ Jesus as Widows, redeemed and un-redeemed, to lead them closer to jesus Christ and also that they may find their Purpose and Calling in Intercession, and whatever our Lord and Father may desire to use their lives for His Glory. ( Forgive me for being so long-winded 🙂 which I know is also one of my “gifts”, and His reason for leading me to create the Website, to share His words with others like myself, seeking More of Him and to share His Love with those who feel they are all alone, and abandoned when they are most definitely not, AMEN!!! Abundant God Blessings to you, Susan and THANK YOU!!! Amen

    1. Susan Gaddis

      So glad you stopped by and shared your story, Gwen. Totally loved hearing it. I’ll be praying for your adventure of building a website for godly widows. That seems like it would really be appreciated by so many who seem to be walking alone through widowhood. You go, Girl!

  8. Beverly A Lyons

    Just truly thanking the Lord for your website and the value word and guidance in the Lord’s ministry of intercession. I have experienced a three areas and am also interested in learning more about this gift that has been given.

    Thank you for your obedience and love for the truth and for the people of God and their walk in their destiny..

    God bless you and I and sure the others are praying for your renewed strength and anointing to continue in this work of the Lord until He returns for us all!!!!

    1. Susan Gaddis

      Thank you for the kind words and encouragement, Beverly. I look forward to getting to know you better and hearing about your adventures in intercession. If you’re still looking to learn more, you can check out my book on Amazon, Intercessors, God’s End-time Vanguard: How to Pray Effectively for the Things that Matter Most. It goes into much more depth than these simple posts.

      Blessings to you, and keep praying!
      Susan

  9. Sherry

    I am a little of all three , I think God wants to equip His people in all three because its needed. To pull down, cover and release strongholds and blessings.

    1. Susan Gaddis

      I agree, Sherry. God does want to equip us to operate in all three. 🙂 Thanks for stopping by and sharing.

  10. LATONYA PATRICK

    I’m an Intercessor and the gift ( or burden) of empathy with crying and wailing revealed this. No one in my church would cry and groan all the time like me. I asked God to please not let me cry on public like that. But you know that didn’t happen. I’m glad I read the article I know I’m a supplicant and warrior but not sure about watchman. It seems like alot of attacks come upon me while Im doing my very best to live right! Im also apart of an intercessory team and I could tell the different Intercessors but never knew names. This is great! It opens up my thinking. Thank you

    1. Susan Gaddis

      You’re welcome, Latonya. It brings me pleasure to know when someone reads a post and, as a result, have a new insight into Jesus and His relationship with them. So glad one of those people was you! 🙂

  11. Kenneth

    Oh this is encouraging. I’ve been searching through the Internet for information related to the intercessory calling lately. I believe I’m called into this and would want to grow and launch into intercession. Please pray and believe with me.

  12. bakal

    Someone told me I am called to be a warrior of intercession…. she said this to me because she interpreted my dream…. in my dream I saw two ladies not too far infront of me. I sae them praying and kinda scared of what is beyond them. They are side by side each other and I am at their left. Then I tried to look where they are facing and I saw a demon hasting towards them. My reaction was to help them but dont know how… but then I wen at their left side and out of nothing I tried to pull out something out my back…. I saw myself holding a sword, it looks ordinary but odd, usually swords have tsuba/handguard but it doesn’t have… then I used it to shield us from the fist blows of the demon… I dont know if got hurt but he keeps being aggressive… I notice the sword never got worn out…. then I woke up and that’s when someone told me I was called to be warrior of intercession…. but then she also said to me I could be a watchman because she referred a bible verse regarding people told me…. tho I am kind of a patron that visit the church whenever I feel it…. I think I could be a warrior and a watchman but noy supplicant

    1. Susan Gaddis

      Time and experience will confirm to you how to be all three, Bakal. If you’d like some in-depth training on these three areas of intercession, pick up my book mentioned in the post. I’m sure you’ll find guidance and encouragement there. 🙂

  13. Kristi Benton

    I realize this is an older post I was wanting to explain the rolls of God’s disciples and this was the perfect explanation.

  14. Gloria

    This was really helpful in my search for the roles of intercessors which by the grace of God I have been one. I enjoyed learning we have different types of intercessors with reference to their specific functions.
    God bless you richly Sussan.

    1. Susan Gaddis

      I’m glad you found it helpful, Gloria. And it is nice to meet another intercessor!
      Thanks for stopping by.
      Susan

  15. Caroline

    Hello Susan, l thank God for giving you us in this time and season. Iam in 3 of them and thank you so much for giving us more knowledge in standing for the Kingdom of God. I understood and learn so many things from this Website, especially on explain this 3. What is happening to that made me the Holy spirit to lead me to you is, most of the time l don’t want to be with people or to talk, l can spend the all day inside doors and am not that friendly l feel sometimes that maybe am wicked, does it happen to Intercessors that way and if l said a word or anything in my family it must be so, there is no way l can change my mind on that. What is going on with me? Thank you so much for your help and reaviling this to us.

    1. Susan Gaddis

      It is so nice to know that you found the post and website helpful, Caroline. It sounds like you are working your way through to understanding. Clarity comes with time and experience, so keep praying and letting God lead you in love.
      Warmly,
      Susan

  16. Debra V. Harper

    This was such a profound and very prolific teaching. Do you do seminars or Women’s Conferences regarding the role of the intercessor? Have you published other books related to Intercessory Prayer? If so how may one obtain a copy?

    1. Susan Gaddis

      Hi Debra,

      Glad you found the post helpful. Right now, the only book I have published on Intercession is the one mentioned in the post with a link to it on Amazon, “Intercessors, God’s End-time Vanguard.”

      I do a lot of teaching on intercession, and you’ll find some of that teaching in the Library courses of the Legacy Lounge membership site: https://lounge.susangaddis.net/lounge. I talk about it a lot in the How to Master the Art of Hearing God’s voice course and in the Drawing Hearts Closer to Jesus course.

      I still teach at seminars, retreats, and conferences as I have for many years. I’ve been doing fewer since Covid hit, but I’ve found Zoom to be a fun replacement for on-site events.

      I hope that answers your questions, and thanks for stopping by. 🙂

      Susan

  17. Sandy M

    Thank you for your post. I have been set over a large church that represents many churches. I am a watchman with prophetic prophecy and a warrior that intercedes also. Thank you as I now have an identity of who I am to God because of HIs gifts to me. For He is good. Sandy M

    1. Susan Gaddis

      I’m thankful you found this post so helpful in your calling, Sandy. I will be praying for you as you lead others.

Leave a Reply