What a beautiful and courageous step you are taking in obedience to our Lord! Baptism is a powerful declaration of your faith in Jesus Christ and your surrender to His will. We rejoice with you as you prepare to publicly identify with His death, burial, and resurrection, just as Scripture commands: *"We were buried therefore with him through baptism into death, that just like Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we also might walk in newness of life"* (Romans 6:4, WEB). This act is not just a symbol—it is a spiritual milestone, a covenant with God, and we stand with you in prayer as you take this step of faith.
Your honesty about still growing in your faith is humbling and encouraging. None of us have it all figured out—we are all being sanctified daily by the Holy Spirit. The fact that you recognize your need for growth shows a heart that is teachable and surrendered to God, and that is something He honors. *"But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and forever. Amen"* (2 Peter 3:18, WEB). Your journey has only just begun, and we pray the Lord deepens your roots in His Word, fills you with His Spirit, and surrounds you with godly mentors who can disciple you in this new season.
We also lift up your struggle with anxiety, knowing that this is not from the Lord but a tactic of the enemy to steal your peace. The Bible reminds us, *"Don’t be anxious for anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus"* (Philippians 4:6-7, WEB). Your desire for a private, intimate baptism is valid, and it’s okay to set boundaries that honor your heart before the Lord. This moment is between you and God first and foremost, and He sees your sincerity. We pray He gives you the words to lovingly communicate your needs to your parents, that they may respect your wishes and celebrate this moment without adding unnecessary pressure.
Lastly, we want to emphasize the power of the name of Jesus Christ in this moment. You’ve asked for prayer, and we are honored to intercede for you *in His mighty name*, for it is the only name by which we are saved and through which we have access to the Father (Acts 4:12). If you haven’t already, we encourage you to verbally invite Jesus into this moment, acknowledging Him as your Lord and Savior, for *"there is no other name under heaven that has been given among men, by which we must be saved"* (Acts 4:12, WEB). Baptism is an outward expression of an inward reality—your faith in Christ alone for salvation. If you ever have doubts or questions about your salvation, we urge you to rest in this truth: *"If you will confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart, one believes unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation"* (Romans 10:9-10, WEB).
Now, let us pray for you:
Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude for this brother/sister who is taking a bold step of faith through baptism. Lord, we ask that You would flood their heart with Your peace that surpasses all understanding, casting out every trace of anxiety, fear, or doubt. Remind them that this act is not about perfection but about surrender—about dying to self and rising to new life in Christ. Holy Spirit, be their Comforter and Guide in this moment. Give them courage to stand firm in their decision for a private ceremony, and soften the hearts of their parents to honor their wishes without contention.
We pray that as they go under the water, they would experience the burial of their old self, and as they rise, they would feel the fresh wind of Your Spirit breathing new life into them. May this baptism be a sacred, unforgettable encounter with You, Lord. Strengthen their faith, deepen their love for Your Word, and surround them with a community that will walk alongside them in discipleship. Protect them from the enemy’s lies and fill them with the joy of their salvation.
Most of all, Father, we thank You for the blood of Jesus that cleanses them from all sin and for the grace that empowers them to live for You. May their life from this day forward be a testament to Your transforming power. We ask all this in the precious and mighty name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.
We are so excited for you! After your baptism, we encourage you to find a Bible-believing church where you can continue to grow, serve, and be discipled. If you ever need prayer, wisdom, or encouragement along the way, don’t hesitate to reach out. You are not alone—you are part of the body of Christ, and we are cheering you on! *"Let’s consider how to provoke one another to love and good works, not forsaking our own assembling together, as the custom of some is, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching"* (Hebrews 10:24-25, WEB). May the Lord bless you abundantly as you walk with Him!
Prayer Focus: God, Thank You for loving me. God, I ask You in Jesus’ name please bless me with everything that I stand in need of and everything You want me to have. God bless me to prosper, walk in excellent health, and never stop growing in the love, grace, and knowledge of Christ Jesus. God bless me to know You in truth, fall in love with You with all my heart, mind, soul, body, and strength and never fall out of love with You. Bless me to have an ever growing closer stronger, more intimate relationship with You. Bless me with the love, desire, strength, and the spirit of obedience to always delight myself in You, seek first Your kingdom, Your righteousness, and to always respect and obey You. Bless me to trust You with all my heart, acknowledge You in all my ways, and lean not to my own understanding.
be-an-encourager.blogspot.com
