How can Psalm 86:5 inspire our prayers for others' salvation? A Closer Look at Psalm 86:5 “For You, O Lord, are kind and forgiving, rich in loving devotion to all who call on You.” Confidence in God’s Readiness to Forgive •Kind – His nature is benevolent, not reluctant. •Forgiving – He removes guilt, not merely overlooks it. •Rich in loving devotion – His covenant love never runs dry. •To all who call – Salvation is offered without partiality. These four realities assure that when we intercede for unbelievers, we are pleading with a God eager to answer. Letting God’s Character Shape Intercession •Start with worship: acknowledge His kindness and forgiveness aloud. •Pray boldly: His eagerness invites confident, specific requests for particular people. •Pray universally: because He welcomes “all,” include those who seem farthest away. •Pray persistently: His steadfast love outlasts resistance. Promises That Fuel Our Requests •1 Timothy 2:3-4 – “God … desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” •2 Peter 3:9 – “The Lord … is patient … not wanting anyone to perish but everyone to come to repentance.” •Romans 10:13 – “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” •John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son…” These passages mirror Psalm 86:5 and confirm that prayers for salvation align perfectly with God’s revealed will. Practical Steps for Praying for Salvation •Declare Psalm 86:5 aloud, anchoring faith in God’s character. •Name individuals before the throne, asking that the Spirit draw them to call on the Lord (John 6:44). •Plead for conviction of sin and revelation of Christ’s sufficiency (John 16:8; 2 Corinthians 4:4-6). •Request open doors for the gospel and bold witnesses in their lives (Colossians 4:3-4). •Thank God in advance for His kindness that leads to repentance (Romans 2:4). •Keep a record of requests and answered prayers, strengthening future intercession. Living in Expectant Hope Because Psalm 86:5 portrays a God overflowing with mercy toward “all who call,” every prayer for another’s salvation rests on solid ground. Continue asking, believing that the same grace extended to you is fully available to them. |
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