Standing in the Gap before God

Psalm 106:23, 30

First published on: May 6, 2020

Last updated on: October 16, 2026

Photo by Palash Ray, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

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.

But Phinehas stood up and intervened,
and the plague was checked.
Psalm 106:23, 30 NIV

Most Americans I know, including Christians, believe that our nation has some serious issues. And I would have to agree with them. We are a nation whose people are more and more turning away from God. Polls show that the number of people identifying as Christian in the U.S. is in decline. And even among those who continue to identify as Christian, fewer seem to hold to historic Christian doctrines. We are quickly turning into a post-Christian nation. A nation in rebellion against God.

Is there anything that can be done? I believe this passage answers that question. The psalmist recounts Israel’s history, especially the Exodus and wilderness wanderings. Israel repeatedly rebelled against God. And several times, God’s anger is revealed against this rebellious people.

Standing in the Gap

But in at least the two cases recorded here, we see the difference an individual can make. Through their actions, both Moses and Phinehas kept God’s wrath from destroying the people. Moses, in particular, is described as standing in the gap before God. This pictures Moses standing in the middle of a breached fortification wall, defending those behind him. And because Moses took that stand, God’s wrath was turned away from Israel.

Are you willing to be a Moses, standing in the gap and contending for the souls of those around you? James tells us that “the prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective” (Jam. 5:16). Pray for your nation. Pray for those who lead it. And for those around you. Pray for a spiritual awakening in our world today. A revival that would turn away God’s wrath.

If You Hold Anything Against Anyone – Mark 11:25

Hurt is inevitable in our lives. How we respond is not. Do not hold anything against one who has hurt you. Forgive them and find peace.

Coming Alongside God in Prayer – James 5:17-18

God has given us an awesome privilege in prayer. He allows us to come alongside Him in His redemptive work in the world.

Be Persistent in Prayer – Luke 18:1

Be persistent in your prayer to God. His response may be immediate, or delayed. But trust that God will respond when the time is right.

Those Who Seek Will Find – Acts 10:1-2

Jesus promised that those who seek will find. And Cornelius is an example of one who sought for God, and God ensured that he found him.

(This post was originally published on

May 6, 2020

)

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Ed Jarrett

Just an old clay jar that God continues to see fit to use in his kingdom's work. I am retired, married with 2 children, and 4 grandchildren. I have followed Jesus for many years. And I love to share what He has given me from His word.

A Note to Readers

The views expressed here are solely mine and do not necessarily reflect those of any other person, group, or organization. While I believe they reflect the teachings of the Bible, I am a fallible human and subject to misunderstanding. Please feel free to leave any comments or questions about this post in the comments section below. I am always interested in your feedback.