The Importance of Praying for Others

~ 1 Timothy 2:1-5 NLT

I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity. This is good and pleases God our Savior, who wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth. For there is only one God and one Mediator who can reconcile God and humanity — the man Christ Jesus. 

1. Because God commanded us.

And that’s always reason enough. God rewards those who take Him at His word and trust Him enough to follow His plan.

2. Because praying for others moves our focus to others.

Many of the emotional problems we experience (not all, but many) are the result of too much focus on self. Adopting a ministry of praying for others moves our focus outside of our own issues to the issues of others. In fact, Paul wanted it to be a priority… “first of all…”

3. Because praying for others effectively changes things.

A key phrase in this passage is “so that.” Pray for people in authority so that we may lead a peaceful life. In other words, history is shaped by prayer and by unseen, supernatural forces responding to God’s instructions in response to our praying.

4. Because God wants everyone saved.

And His chief, chosen way of enlarging the kingdom is by our prayers. He wants everyone in His family, and prayer opens the door for that to happen.

5. Because Jesus prays for you.

Satan has asked to sift each of you like wheat. But I have pleaded in prayer for you, Simon, that your faith should not fail.

~ Luke 22:31-32 NLT

Therefore he is able, once and forever, to save those who come to God through him. He lives forever to intercede with God on their behalf.

~ Hebrews 7:25 NLT