We come before the Lord with grateful hearts that you have brought this request to us, for it is our joy to lift up our brothers and sisters in Christ—and those who have not yet come to saving faith—before the throne of grace. The names you’ve withheld are known fully to our Heavenly Father, who numbers even the hairs on their heads. Let us first address something vital: you have not invoked the name of Jesus in this request, and we must gently but firmly remind you that there is no other name under heaven by which we are saved, nor by which we may approach the Father. As Scripture declares, *"There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven that is given among men, by which we must be saved!"* (Acts 4:12, WEB). It is only through faith in Jesus Christ—His death, burial, and resurrection—that anyone can be reconciled to God. If these individuals you’ve mentioned do not yet know Christ as their Lord and Savior, we must pray all the more urgently for their salvation, for without Him, there is no hope of eternal life, no true joy, and no power for obedience.
Let us also consider the weight of praying for "obedience to God." Obedience is not a burdensome duty for the believer but the natural outflow of a heart transformed by the Holy Spirit. Jesus said, *"If you love me, keep my commandments"* (John 14:15, WEB). Obedience is the evidence of genuine faith, and it is impossible apart from the work of God in a person’s life. So we pray not only that these individuals would obey but that God would first grant them repentance and faith in Christ, for *"it is God who works in you both to will and to work, for his good pleasure"* (Philippians 2:13, WEB).
Now, let us pray together for these beloved souls and their families:
Heavenly Father, we come before You in the mighty and matchless name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. We thank You that You are a God who hears and answers prayer, who desires all people to come to the knowledge of the truth and be saved. Lord, we lift up these individuals—our brother and the one represented by those symbols—to You now. Father, if they do not yet know You, we ask that You would open their eyes to the glory of the gospel. Remove the veil from their hearts, convict them of sin, and draw them to Yourself by Your irresistible grace. Let them see their need for a Savior and turn to Christ in faith, repenting of their sins and surrendering their lives to Him. May they experience the new birth, being born again not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which lives and remains forever (1 Peter 1:23).
For those who are already in Christ, we pray for a fresh outpouring of Your Spirit upon them. Renew their joy in You, Lord, for *"the joy of Yahweh is your strength"* (Nehemiah 8:10, WEB). Fill them with Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, and guard their hearts and minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7). Strengthen them to walk in obedience, not in their own power, but by the power of Your Spirit working within them. May they delight in Your commandments and find their greatest satisfaction in doing Your will.
We also lift up their families before You, Lord. Save those who are lost, sanctify those who are Yours, and unite them in faith and love. May their homes be places where Your name is honored, where Your word is taught, and where Your presence is tangibly felt. Break any chains of sin or bondage that may be hindering them, and let Your light shine brightly through them to a lost and dying world.
Father, we ask that You would surround them with godly influences—brothers and sisters in Christ who will encourage them, challenge them, and spur them on toward love and good works (Hebrews 10:24). Protect them from the schemes of the enemy, who seeks to devour and destroy. Clothe them in Your armor, that they may stand firm against the wickedness in high places (Ephesians 6:10-18).
Lord, we pray for their well-being in every area: spiritually, physically, emotionally, and mentally. Heal any sickness or disease, comfort any sorrow, and provide for every need according to Your riches in glory in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19). May they prosper in all things and be in good health, even as their souls prosper (3 John 1:2).
Finally, Father, we ask that You would use their lives for Your glory. Whether in times of plenty or times of want, may they trust You completely and bear much fruit for Your kingdom. Let their lives be a testament to Your goodness, Your faithfulness, and Your power to save.
We ask all these things in the precious and powerful name of Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.
To you who have brought this request, we encourage you to continue praying fervently for these individuals. Share the gospel with them boldly and lovingly, for *"how will they believe in him whom they have not heard? And how will they hear without a preacher?"* (Romans 10:14, WEB). Live out your faith before them, that they may see Christ in you. And never underestimate the power of prayer—it is the very means by which God accomplishes His purposes in the world.
If there is any sin or hindrance in your own life, we urge you to confess it and turn from it, that your prayers may not be hindered (Psalm 66:18). Walk in holiness and obedience, for *"the effective, earnest prayer of a righteous person is powerfully effective"* (James 5:16, WEB).
May the Lord bless you as you intercede for others, and may He grant you the joy of seeing these prayers answered according to His perfect will.