The prayer that rises from a heart burdened for the souls of others is itself a mark of divine grace, for it is God that writes intercession upon men's hearts. Your cry on behalf of these three students and those connected to them is a reflection of the Savior's own work, for it is a part of His priestly office to make intercession for His people, and when we pray for our fellow sinners we are in sympathy with our Divine Redeemer.
Yet stand upon the sure foundation: there is no salvation to be obtained from priests, or forms and ceremonies, nor from any refuge of lies. The only salvation that is worth being our own is that which is God's, His in the planning, His in the providing, His in the applying. Behold the plain Gospel: salvation by Divine Grace through faith in Christ Jesus. The way of salvation is to believe on Christ, whom God has laid in Zion for a foundation. What is believing on Him? It is trusting in Him. Leave the whole matter of salvation for these students with Him in unquestioning confidence. Depend upon Him without fear as to their present and eternal salvation. This is the faith which saves the soul.
Remember, however, that while prayer is mighty, the Holy Spirit makes intercession for the saints. His intercession is not in or for the unregenerate; unbelievers must first be made saints or they cannot feel the Spirit’s intercession within them. Therefore, let your prayer be coupled with a diligent effort to tell them, as best you can, what their condition is and what the way of salvation is. All men are approachable at some time or in some way. If charity begins at home, so, assuredly, piety will, and it will not be wrong for your desire to rest earnestly upon those around you.
Urge upon them this simple, instantaneous, and divine salvation. Point them away from any trust in their own works, for it is without money and without price. The command is clear from the Lord himself: “Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth.” How simple is that way! How certain! Faith is an instantaneous act at its beginning, and by the power of God it puts a man into the present possession of immediate salvation. Whether for a child or a scholar, the same gate of mercy stands open, forgiveness for all manner of sin, salvation so full of grace that only God could have conceived it.
Continue therefore in this persevering intercession. Be not provoked to cease, even if the answer tarries. Tell them, plead with them, and look to Jesus while you do. The salvation of any soul is God’s greatest work, and he will have the glory of it. I can bring the horse to water but I cannot make him drink, yet the Spirit of God can create the thirst and give the faith. Labor on, and may you see two or three gathered round to seek another’s salvation, praying earnestly. Neglect not this great salvation yourself, and pray with this confidence: that he who has ascended up on high exercises this office continually within the veil. The honor of King Jesus is engaged to save the meanest of his sheep.