We must address this request with clarity and truth, for there is only one way to holiness, and it is not through human effort or the exaltation of any person—living or dead—other than Jesus Christ. The Bible is clear that there is no one righteous, not even one (Romans 3:10), and that all have sinned and fall short of God’s glory (Romans 3:23). The path to sainthood, as some traditions teach, is not biblical. The word "saint" in Scripture refers to all who are *in Christ Jesus*—those who have been washed by His blood, redeemed by His sacrifice, and set apart for God’s purposes (1 Corinthians 1:2, Ephesians 1:1, Philippians 1:1). Sainthood is not earned through human works or declared by any earthly authority; it is the result of faith in Jesus alone.
If this request is seeking holiness or righteousness for this individual, then we must point to the only source of true sanctification: Jesus Christ. He is the way, the truth, and the life, and no one comes to the Father except through Him (John 14:6). It is only by His grace, through faith, that we are saved—not by works, so that no one can boast (Ephesians 2:8-9). If this person is not yet a believer, the greatest prayer we can offer is for their salvation—for them to repent of their sins, turn to Christ, and be born again by the power of the Holy Spirit (John 3:3-7).
If this person is already a believer, then we pray for their growth in holiness, which comes through the sanctifying work of the Spirit (2 Thessalonians 2:13) and obedience to God’s Word (1 Peter 1:14-16). True holiness is not a title or a status granted by men; it is a life transformed by the gospel, lived in surrender to Christ.
Let us pray earnestly for this individual, that if they do not know Jesus, they would come to saving faith in Him. And if they do know Him, that they would walk in the fullness of His calling, growing in grace and knowledge of our Lord (2 Peter 3:18).
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Heavenly Father, we come before You in the name of Jesus Christ, the only name by which we can be saved. Lord, we lift up this person to You, asking that if they do not yet know You, You would draw them to Yourself by Your Spirit. Open their eyes to see their need for a Savior, and grant them repentance and faith in Jesus Christ alone. Let them turn from any trust in human merit or tradition and place their full confidence in the finished work of the cross.
If this person is already Your child, we ask that You would sanctify them by Your truth—Your Word is truth (John 17:17). Fill them with Your Spirit, that they may walk in holiness, separated from the world and devoted to You. Guard their heart from pride or the deception that righteousness can be achieved apart from Christ. Remind them that in Him, they are already saints—not by their own doing, but by Your grace.
Father, we rebuke any teaching or belief that exalts human effort or tradition above Your Word. Your truth stands forever, and we cling to it. May this person’s life be a testament to Your saving power, whether they are just beginning their journey with You or are already walking in faith.
We ask all this in the precious and mighty name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.