Devotion #2: Prayer For the Salvation of Someone We Love

Are you earnestly praying for someone you know to receive Jesus Christ as their Savior and be saved? It might be a family member, friend, coworker, or neighbor. I do not know who that person is for you, but as followers of Jesus, this should be an integral part of our daily walk. 

In Amos chapter 7, the prophet Amos pleads with God for salvation and mercy for Israel. His prayer reflects a deep passion and longing to see them saved. Similarly, in Romans 10:1-4, Paul writes a prayer of desperation for the salvation of those he loves, “Brothers, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for them is that they may be saved. For I bear them witness that they have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge. For, being ignorant of the righteousness of God, and seeking to establish their own, they did not submit to God’s righteousness. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes.” 

Paul’s heart is burdened with a deep desire for the children of Israel to be saved. This longing is so intense that in Romans chapter 9, he even says he would be willing to be accursed from God for the sake of his people if only they would believe and be saved. Paul’s desperation is unmistakable. He explains that although they know God, they are ignorant of the way to salvation. That way to salvation is Jesus Christ. 

Like the Israelites, we are all separated from God because of sin, and because of that separation, we deserve the punishment of death. Yet, Jesus made a way. He declared that He is the only way to the Father. We must repent of our sins, believe that Jesus Christ came to Earth, lived a sinless life, died on the cross, rose again on the third day, and is coming back. This is the way to righteousness, not the mere knowledge of God. 

According to a 2023 survey, 73% of Americans claim to believe in God. However, belief in God alone is not the way to salvation. Even Satan believes in God’s existence. Paul’s words remind us that believing in God is not enough; salvation comes only through Jesus Christ. 

Now, as I asked at the beginning of this devotion, are you praying desperately for the salvation of someone you love? When you read this, did a specific name come to mind? Perhaps it was a child, grandchild, parent, or friend? Whoever it may be, I understand the desperation you feel. As you read, you may resonate with Paul’s pain and longing. 

Let me encourage you: continue to pray for them. Pray for them by name every day. Ask the Holy Spirit to move in their hearts so that they would make Jesus the Lord of their life. Pray that as Jesus stands at the door of their heart and knocks, they will respond and invite Him in. 

Heavenly Father,
I come before You with a heart full of love and hope for [Name]. You know their heart, their struggles, and their needs better than I do. Lord, I pray that You draw them closer to You in a way that only You can. Open their eyes to see Your truth, soften their heart to receive Your love, and fill them with a longing to know You personally. 

Holy Spirit, I ask that You work in their life, removing any barriers or doubts that keep them from embracing the gift of salvation. Surround them with people who reflect Your grace and speak Your truth, and give them experiences that reveal Your presence and power. 

Lord Jesus, thank You for the sacrifice You made for all of us on the cross. I pray that [Name] would come to understand and accept the depth of Your love and the forgiveness You offer. Let their heart be transformed by Your grace, and may they find peace, joy, and purpose in a relationship with You. 

Thank You, Father, for Your faithfulness. I trust that You are working even now in ways I may not see. I commit [Name] into Your loving hands, knowing that Your will is perfect. 

In Jesus’ mighty name, I pray.
Amen.