How to Pray for Fellow Believers

Guest Author: Jereme Vanderwoude

Often times it can feel overwhelming thinking about all the different people and situations we can and should pray for in a given day. It should be no surprise that the Word of God has much to give us, for those of us eager to pray for others yet not always knowing where to start and maybe what to pray for. While there is no one-size fits all formula to prayer, there are many examples of prayer in the Bible that are worth considering as a model and example.

Below is a simple guide based on the Scriptures listed on how to spend time praying for others, specifically the saints.

As it says in Ephesians 6:18:

…praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep
alert with all perseverance, making supplications for all the saints…

Ephesians 618

Scripture: Colossians 4:2, Ephesians, 6:18, 1 Timothy 2:1-4

Thanksgiving (Read: Psalm 100, Rom. 1:8, Eph. 1:15-16, Phil. 1:3-5 & 4:6, 2 Thes. 1:3-4 & 2:13)

• What about this person/(s) identity in Christ are you thankful for?
• What fruit of the Spirit have you seen in them that you are thankful for?
• What impact has this person made on others that you are thankful for?

Will of God (Read: Rom. 15:5-6, Eph. 1:17-20, Eph. 3:14-19, Phil. 1:9-11, Col. 1:9-14, Col. 4:12, 1 Thes. 3:11-14, 2 Thes. 1:11-12 & 2:16-17, Ph. 6)

All examples of prayers made for other believers. These prayers can be applied to all believers since they are God’s will for everyone.

Examples:

• “…that _____love would abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that they may approve what is excellent…” (Phil. 1:9-10)
• “…that ______ may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord…” (Col. 1:9)
• “…that you (God) may make _____ worthy of your calling and may fulfill every resolve for good and every work of faith by your power…” (2 Thess. 1:11)

Other scriptures ideas to pray for others with:

Armor of God (Eph. 6:10-18), Fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22-24), Godly Qualities (2 Peter 1:3-10), etc.

Specific Needs (Read: Col. 4:3-4, 2 Thess. 3:1-2, Eph. 6:19, James 5:13-18)

What spiritual or physical needs does this person/(s) have that have been made known or that you have discerned?

• Pray for these needs

Share (If there are any words of encouragement, scriptures, or anything else from your time of praying that the Holy Spirit impressed upon you, share it with that person/(s)