7 Ways to Pray for the Lost

One of the best things we can do as Christians is pray for people who don’t know Jesus yet. But sometimes we’re not sure what to pray. The Bible gives us clear direction.

First, pray for God’s will in their lives. Paul tells us to pray for everyone because God “wants all people to be saved” (1 Timothy 2:3-4). When you pray, remember that God wants them to know Him even more than you do.

Second, ask the Holy Spirit to show them their sin. Jesus promised the Spirit would help people see their sin and their need for God (John 16:8). Only God can help someone understand they need to be saved.

Third, pray they’d be drawn to Jesus. The Spirit points people to Christ (John 15:26). He can reach their hearts in ways we never could.

Fourth, ask God to open their spiritual eyes. Paul says “the god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers” (2 Corinthians 4:4). Pray that God would help them see the truth.

Fifth, pray against the enemy’s lies. We need to tear down false ideas that keep people from knowing God (2 Corinthians 10:5). The enemy uses lies to keep people in darkness. Pray those lies would be broken.

Sixth, ask God to open their hearts. The Bible tells us about a woman named Lydia. “The Lord opened her heart” to believe Paul’s message (Acts 16:14). Pray for soft, open hearts ready to hear truth.

Seventh, pray for chances to share the gospel. Paul asked people to pray “that God may open a door for our message” (Colossians 4:3). Pray for the right timing and brave Christians (including you!) to share with them.

Don’t give up praying for those who are lost. Your prayers make a real difference.