A Friend: Prays for You

15 / Sun – Read John 17:20

Overview: The best friends are the ones who are always interceding for you and praying for all the aspects of your life. Because that’s what friends do. And that’s what Jesus does for his friends, i.e., all of us.

16 / Mon – Did you know…?  |  Read John 17:20, 24 / Hebrews 7:23-25 / Romans 8:26-27

Jesus prayed for his friends in John 17. Isn’t it amazing to think he prayed for us, too, in 17:20? But he didn’t stop when he left Earth. Even now, he is interceding for you in heaven. And when you don’t know how to pray here on earth, the Holy Spirit prays for you. Are you facing things that seem too difficult to bear? Are you concerned for someone else who is struggling? When you don’t know what to say, ask the Holy Spirit to help you. As you pray the words he gives, you will find a sense of peace, knowing that you’ve been heard and the answers will come.

17 / Tue – Start with the right focus  |  Read 1 Peter 1:8-9 / Ephesians 3:20-21

When you pray, it is tempting to start with all the worries that plague you. Instead, look up and consider who you are talking to. The worship song, Remember, expresses it so well…Oh, my soul, remember who you’re talking to, the only one who death bows to, that’s the God who walks with you. Why not start by telling the Lord all the things you love about him? Reaffirm your confidence that he knows, cares about, and will help with any situation you face.

18 / Wed – A two-way conversation  |  Read 1 Thessalonians 5:17

Prayer is a conversation, a chance for you to talk to Jesus as you would your best friend on earth. Tell him what you are excited about, the good things you are looking forward to. Ask for advice on the thorny issues you face. He is a good listener when you need to pour out your heart, your anger, frustration, or grief. Tell him how much you love him and appreciate his friendship. Then take time to listen. Let him tell you the ways you are a blessing to him. Because you are.

19 / Thu – Powerful prayers  |  Read James 5:16

In the second part of this verse, God describes what your prayers can be like. If these are the kind of prayers you want to pray, what might be some prerequisites? Check out these verses and jot down your thoughts: Romans 2:13-15; Matthew 6:33; 2 Corinthians 5:20b-21; Ephesians 4:22-24; Philippians 3:9; James 2:23; 1 John 3:5-7. What insights about righteousness did you gain from these scriptures? And what is God saying to you about your own life in Him?

20 / Fri – A physical prayer tool  |  Read 1 Timothy 2:1-4

You can use your hand to help you pray for all kinds of people. The thumb is for those closest to you, like your family and friends. The pointer finger represents all those who point the way, such as educators and spiritual leaders. The tall middle finger is for the leaders in your community, county, state, and nation. The ring finger (the weakest one) reminds you of those who are sick, in prison, in crisis, and those who help them. The pinky is for you, praying about personal needs and concerns. Try this five-finger prayer. If it works, share it with others, especially the kids in your life.

21 / Sat – Persistence  |  Read Matthew 6:7-8 / Luke 18:1-7

Jesus tells us not to pray as pagans do with mindless repetition, thinking this will get their god’s attention. But he also told us to pray and not give up, using the persistent widow as an example. When you earnestly ask for something, God always answers. Sometimes it will be yes, other times you’ll hear a no, or you might hear Him say not yet. Can you think of an example when you heard each of these answers? Which was the hardest? How did things turn out?