In what ways can we apply Jesus' example of prayer for others in our lives? Setting the Scene: Luke 22:32 “ ‘But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith will not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.’ ” What We See in Jesus’ Prayer • Personal: He calls Peter by name. • Specific: He targets Peter’s faith, the very area under attack. • Proactive: He prays before the crisis unfolds. • Purpose-driven: He envisions Peter’s future ministry of strengthening others. • Faith-filled: He expects restoration—“when you have turned back.” Practical Ways to Follow His Pattern 1. Pray by Name – Keep a list of family, friends, leaders. – Speak their names before the Father (Isaiah 43:1). 2. Pray for Faith, Not Just Circumstances – Ask that hearts stay rooted in Christ (Ephesians 3:16-19). – Intercede for endurance under trial (James 1:2-4). 3. Pray Ahead of the Battle – Cover loved ones daily before temptations hit (Mark 14:38). – Lift missionaries, students, and new believers as they enter new arenas. 4. Pray with Restoration in View – Believe God can turn a failure into future ministry (John 21:15-17). – Ask Him to use their story to “strengthen [their] brothers.” 5. Pray with Confidence in God’s Sovereignty – Rest in Christ’s ongoing intercession (Romans 8:34; Hebrews 7:25). – Thank Him in advance for answered prayer (1 John 5:14-15). Supporting Scriptures to Anchor Our Intercession • John 17:9 – “I ask on their behalf…” • Colossians 1:9-11 – Paul prays believers “be filled with the knowledge of His will.” • Ephesians 6:18 – “Pray in the Spirit at all times, with every kind of prayer…” • 1 Samuel 12:23 – “Far be it from me to sin against the LORD by ceasing to pray for you.” • James 5:16 – “Pray for one another, so that you may be healed.” A Simple Weekly Plan • Monday: Family—pray each member’s faith will not fail. • Tuesday: Church leaders—strength to shepherd well. • Wednesday: Friends in crisis—future restoration and ministry. • Thursday: Missionaries—protection before trials arise. • Friday: The prodigals—confident expectation of their return. • Saturday: Government leaders—wisdom and integrity. • Sunday: New believers—deep roots and bold witness. Remember Every intercession joins the ongoing ministry of Jesus Himself, who “always lives to intercede for them” (Hebrews 7:25). |
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