“And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force” (Matt. 11:12 NKJ).
This verse is an encouragement to intercessors. The word violent speaks volumes to us. A violent person is defined as “one who feels an eager, vehement desire for something.” Praying people understand such language. Some other possible translations of this verse are:
“…the kingdom of heaven is eagerly sought and forcibly snatched at. The forceful press forward through vehement desire and pursue it eagerly.”
“…the kingdom of Heaven has been taken by storm and eager men are forcing their way into it.”
“…the kingdom of heaven has been rushed. The impetuous seize it by force.”
In our times, the lateness of the day, the brevity of the hour, the hostility of our enemies, the desperation of our society, the urgency of the situation, the vital need of the twenty-first century Church is all we really need to incite and excite intense prayer.
Like a fortress in war, the kingdom of heaven must be taken by storm. He who besieges the throne of grace by faith and prayer is sure to prevail. Like a crowd bursting into a house and like an army taking a city, this is no time for hesitation or delay. Those who wrestle in prayer, those who will not be denied, those who strive will succeed.
For praying people, Matthew 11:12 could read: “The kingdom of heaven has available great answers to prayer. The determined, persistent, fervent and energetic take it by storm.” What an incentive for a consistent disciplined life of prayer!
Excerpt permission granted by Harrison House Publishers