Sometimes the hardest people group to pray for is family, because there may be a lot of history, years of unresolved issues, or perhaps despite your best efforts, it’s unclear how they will ever make the decision to surrender their lives to Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour.
How Do I Intercede For Family Who Don’t Believe In Jesus?
Bible Reading: Romans 10:1
“Brothers and sisters, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for the Israelites is that they may be saved.” – Romans 10:1 (NIV)
Interceding for family members who do not believe in Jesus is a heartfelt and significant endeavor. It reflects our love for them and our desire for them to experience the life-changing power of Christ. Here are some key steps to guide your intercession for your loved ones:
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Pray with a Burdened Heart: Your passion for your family’s salvation should drive your prayers. Approach God with a sincere heart, asking Him to work in their lives.
- Scripture Reference: Psalm 126:5 – “Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy.”
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Seek God’s Will: As you pray, ask the Lord to reveal His desires for your family members. Understanding His heart can guide your prayers and give you insights into how to intercede effectively.
- Scripture Reference: 1 John 5:14 – “This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.”
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Pray for Salvation: Specifically ask God to bring your family to a saving knowledge of Jesus. Pray for their hearts to be open and receptive to the Gospel message.
- Scripture Reference: John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
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Intercede for Their Needs: Consider the personal challenges or struggles your family members may be facing. Pray for healing, provision, and guidance in their lives, which may lead them to seek God.
- Scripture Reference: Philippians 4:19 – “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”
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Ask for Opportunities to Share: Pray for opportunities to share your faith with them. Ask God for wisdom in knowing how to approach conversations about faith naturally and lovingly.
- Scripture Reference: 1 Peter 3:15 – “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.”
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Trust in God’s Timing: Remember that God’s timing is perfect. Be patient and trust that He is working in your family members’ hearts, even when you cannot see immediate results.
- Scripture Reference: Ecclesiastes 3:11 – “He has made everything beautiful in its time.”
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Stay Committed to Prayer: Make intercession for your family a regular part of your prayer life. Consistency is key, as it shows your commitment to their salvation and keeps them in God’s presence.
- Scripture Reference: Colossians 4:2 – “Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.”
In summary, interceding for family who do not believe in Jesus involves praying with a burdened heart, seeking God’s will, praying for their salvation and needs, asking for opportunities to share, trusting in God’s timing, and staying committed to prayer. Your prayers can make a difference in their journey toward faith.
Prayer: Lord, I lift my family members before You, asking for their salvation. Give me a burdened heart for them and guide my prayers according to Your will. Help me to be a light in their lives and grant me opportunities to share Your love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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