I wrote in my Tuesday blog post about supporting people through prayer, mostly about what to pray for people. Now let’s focus more on the how-to. Here are some ways you can demonstrate you are praying for people in a way that encourages them and make them feel supported. Do you have any others to share? Share in the comments!
Example 1: Pray In The Moment
Oftentimes in casual conversation, people will share something they are struggling with. Stop the conversation right after they bring it up if appropriate and pray for them. Don’t just tell them that you will pray for them. Show it.
Example 2: Message People What You Prayed For Them
It can be incredibly encouraging to receive a text, a Slack message, or email with the typed up version of what someone prayed about for you.
Example 3: Call Someone Up To Pray For Them
This is something I’ve only actually done a couple times, but need to do more. Take the time to call someone going through a trial and pray for them on the phone. It will mean a lot to them.
Example 4: Asking For A Prayer Update
You can easily show people that you have been praying for them by asking them if anything has changed. Don’t be afraid to check in.
Example 5: Larger Group Focus
In my house church, we tried one year to focus on praying specifically for two individuals for an entire month. We tried to pray for those people every time any of our members got together casually or for a study. While it is really hard to keep everyone focused on that task and follow through, it was very encouraging for everyone and helped create some unity and mindfulness.
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