Let Me Pray For You

Have you ever said “Prayers up” or “Praying for you,” but then never actually prayed? Has someone ever said to you, “Let me pray for you,” and you wondered if they ever did?

“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.” - Ephesians 6:18 (NIV)

Reflection

Prayer is that time we get with God to give thanks, ask for help, or just talk things out. It’s worth the time. Not just before meals or during a service, but throughout your day.

Paul writes this verse while urging believers to stay strong against the forces that try to pull them away from God. That same stuff still crowds out our time and attention today. The reminder here is that part of standing firm includes praying for others.

That’s interesting, isn’t it?

It’s a kind gesture to tell someone you’ll pray for them. It’s sincere. And yet sometimes we forget. Sometimes the list grows long. Sometimes we don’t know exactly what to pray for. What if we’re asking for something they don’t even want? Or what if we’re praying for what we want more than what God wants?

Any of that land on you?

It took me a while to become more intentional with my prayers for others. A turning point came when my parents were nearing the end of their lives, especially my dad. I prayed deeply for both of them, but with my father, something shifted. My prayer wasn’t just about asking for peace or healing. It was bold. It was heartfelt. I was standing in for him in a way, asking God to honor my faith on his behalf.

I asked God to take my father home when the time came. To receive him fully. And God gave me peace that He had. That kind of prayer changes you.

Since then, I’ve seen prayers answered. Sometimes in ways I hoped. Sometimes in ways I didn’t expect. I’ve also learned to be careful what I ask for. Sometimes we only see part of the picture. God sees it all. And when He says no or not yet, He’s still being good.

It’s normal to want confirmation that your prayers are getting through. Sometimes we get it. Sometimes we don’t. Maybe God is just making sure we really care. That we’ll keep coming back. That we’ll stay focused.

So what’s the takeaway here?

If you’re not praying for others, start. If you’re not praying every day, start. We need each other in this world. We need people who will persist. We need people who will pray.

By all means, pray.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, help me to slow down and speak with You more. Teach me how to pray sincerely for others, not just with words, but with heart. Give me eyes to see what people really need and the faith to believe You can meet them there. Stir my spirit to keep praying. Remind me You are always listening. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.