How to Pray for Others
Posted on May 5th, 2009 in Prayer | No Comments »
Press the arrow to listen to “Hear Our Cry” from New Life Worship as you read about praying for others.
Scripture
May the LORD answer you in the day of trouble!
May the name of the God of Jacob set you securely on high!
May He send you help from the sanctuary
And support you from Zion!
May He remember all your meal offerings
And find your burnt offering acceptable! Selah.
May He grant you your heart’s desire
And fulfill all your counsel!
We will sing for joy over your victory…. Psalm 20:1-5
Observation
How can we pray for another? There are many times I’ve been stumped. At the altar each Sunday enormous needs are brought to me. Recently, a man confessed to me that during the week he had attempted to take his own life, but thankfully failed. How can I adequately pray for him or for anyone?
The Bible speaks to us, but the Psalms speak for us. When we don’t know what words to pray, the ancient hymns form our words. Like guiding hands, each verse coaches us until our own words free-flow from our lips out of our own hearts.
Application
There is something comforting about each of the sentences of this song of David. Each word is like a reassuring pat on the back from the Lord himself. When I read these words, I can think of many friends who need me to pray these verses over them. And in some sense, I think I can pray them for myself, knowing that it is Jesus, my intercessor, who is praying for me and with me.
Prayer
Father, these are weighty words. Help them to become my own for others. Amen.
