Day 2: Praying Boldly for Others
Scripture:
"Let Your eyes be open and Your ears be attentive to hear Your servant’s prayer that I now pray to You day and night for Your servants, the Israelites." — Nehemiah 1:6
Reflection:
When Nehemiah heard about the broken walls of Jerusalem and the suffering of his people, his first response was prayer. He didn’t jump straight into action—he wept, mourned, fasted, and prayed for them before taking any steps forward.
Nehemiah’s example teaches us that one of the boldest ways we can serve others is through prayer. He prayed for:
- Restoration—that his people would return to God.
- Redemption—for those who were far from Him.
- God’s intervention—to provide a way forward.
As believers, we are called to pray for others, not just for those already in the church but also for those who have not yet come to know Jesus. Paul reminds us in 1 Timothy 2:1-6 that we should pray for all people, because God desires everyone to be saved.
Who in your life needs bold prayer today? A friend who is struggling? A family member who has walked away from God? A coworker who doesn’t know Jesus?
Just as Nehemiah interceded for his people, we must also boldly pray for those in need—both inside and outside the church.
Application:
- Make a list of five people you will commit to praying for this week.
- Pray specifically for those who don’t yet know Jesus, asking God to draw them to Him.
- If possible, reach out to someone on your list and ask how you can pray for them.
Prayer:
Lord, just as Nehemiah boldly prayed for his people, help me to pray for those in my life who need You. I lift up those who are far from You, those struggling with faith, and those in need of restoration. Open their hearts to Your truth, and use me to be an encouragement to them. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Questions for Reflection:
- Who in your life needs bold prayer today?
- How can you be more intentional about praying for others daily?
- What bold step can you take to show God’s love to someone you are praying for?