Intercessors: The Lord’s Battle Axe

"You are My battle-axe and weapons of war: for with you, I will break the nations in pieces; with you, I will destroy kingdoms." – Jeremiah 51:20  

In every great move of God, there have always been intercessors—hidden warriors who fight on their knees before revival reaches the streets. They are the unseen forces who break spiritual chains, tear down strongholds, and prepare the way for the harvest. The world may never know their names, but heaven records every tear, every travail, and every breakthrough won in prayer.

Just as a blacksmith forges a battle axe with heat and hammer, God shapes intercessors through fiery trials and deep intimacy with Him. These are His weapons of war—His chosen vessels to shift nations and shake history.

The Power of Hidden Intercessors 

History tells us about great preachers, teachers, revivalists and evangelists, but what about the ones who prayed behind the scenes? Let’s look at five lesser-known but mighty intercessors whose prayers paved the way for revival.

1. Daniel Nash – The Prayer Force Behind Charles Finney

Daniel Nash wasn’t a famous preacher, but he was a powerful intercessor. Before Charles Finney would hold revival meetings, Nash would arrive in town weeks ahead, renting a room and shutting himself in with God. He groaned in the Spirit, sometimes refusing food, until heaven’s floodgates opened.

Finney later said that his success was largely because of Nash’s prayers. Thousands were saved, and entire towns were transformed. Like Elijah on Mount Carmel (1 Kings 18:42-45), Nash travailed in prayer until the rain of revival fell.

2. Pearl Goode – Covering Billy Graham’s Crusades in Prayer

Pearl Goode, an elderly woman with no fame or platform, made it her mission to pray for Billy Graham’s evangelistic crusades. While others filled stadiums, she filled hotel rooms with intercession. Sometimes she prayed through the night, contending for souls to be saved.

The result? Millions encountered Christ through Graham’s ministry. Like Anna the prophetess (Luke 2:36-38), Goode spent her life in prayer, preparing the way for Jesus to be revealed.

3. Rees Howells – Interceding for World War II and Missionaries

Rees Howells understood that prayer could change the course of history. During World War II, he led a company of intercessors who prayed for God’s intervention. His prayers are credited with influencing key battles and breakthroughs against Hitler’s forces.

Beyond war, Howells raised up missionaries through the Bible College of Wales, sending them into the nations. His life reflected the power of praying without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17).

4. Frank Bartleman – The Prayer Fire Before Azusa Street

Before the Azusa Street Revival, Frank Bartleman was praying in the trenches. He fasted, wept, and cried out for an outpouring of the Holy Spirit. When revival came, people from all over the world gathered to experience Pentecost afresh.

Bartleman’s story teaches us that every great move of God is birthed through prayer and supplication (Acts 1:14).

5. Basilea Schlink – Repentance and Revival in Germany

After World War II, Basilea Schlink interceded for Germany’s spiritual healing and restoration. She called for deep repentance, knowing that revival begins when hearts turn back to God. Her prayers sparked a movement of reconciliation and holiness, impacting people across nations.

Schlink’s life echoes 2 Chronicles 7:14: “If My people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves and pray…”

Intercessors Are God’s Weapons of War

The Bible tells us that we do not wrestle against flesh and blood (Ephesians 6:12). Every spiritual battle requires intercessors who will stand in the gap (Ezekiel 22:30). These hidden warriors are the Lord’s battle axes, breaking demonic strongholds and advancing the kingdom of God.

How Can You Be an Effective Intercessor?

1. Pray with Expectation – Believe that God hears and answers your prayers (Mark 11:24).
2. Stand in the Gap – Intercede for your city, nation, and leaders (1 Timothy 2:1-2).
3. Fast for Breakthrough – Some victories only come through prayer and fasting (Matthew 17:21).
4. Stay Hidden in God’s Presence. Be Powerful in Prayer– You don’t need a platform; God moves through secret prayer (Matthew 6:6).
5. Be Led by the Holy Spirit – Allow the Spirit to guide your intercession (Romans 8:26).

WILL YOU TAKE YOUR PLACE?

Now more than ever, God is calling intercessors to arise. He is searching for those who will stand in the gap on behalf of their families, churches, and nations (Ezekiel 22:30). Will He find you faithful in prayer?

You may never stand on a stage or have your name in history books, but your prayers shift eternity.

Will you take your place as an intercessor? Will you fight in prayer for the next great move of God?

Let’s take our place on the frontlines. Let’s pray until revival comes.