Prayer is the most powerful weapon Christians have in the Spiritual fight we all face. There is so much power in prayer, and yet most Believers do not pray often. Why? Fear, ignorance, distraction, busyness, you name it and it may be on the list. There are over 200 Scripture about prayer in the Bible (250ish actually). This is important!
Looking for Bible verses on prayer pdf’s? Get this list broken into 12 chunks to last you all year!
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How to Use 200+ Scripture About Prayer
Okay, so I spend a lot of time searching for Bible verses to use in prayer and study. Most of the posts I want are just lists of verses. BUT, I can’t just leave you with a list, it’s not my style. So this is a list with a touch of How-To at heart!
How to use Scripture about prayer:
- Ask Questions
- Check the Context
- Apply Them To Your Life
- Go Deeper
BTW: where you see odd notations (*** or ^ or ~) know that this list is being actively used to write a Bible study and while I research and study there are notes for myself to come back to. Sorry if they are confusing 😜!
Ask Questions
When you are looking for Scripture about prayer and supplication it is important to ask questions. Here are some of mine:
- Why is prayer so powerful?
- What Scripture says about prayer for everyday people?
- What Jesus says about prayer?
- Where is prayer is the key in the Bible?
- Are there Scriptures about prayers I can follow?
With these questions or others in mind I can then search the over 100 Bible verses on prayer with confidence. What are some questions you have about prayer?
Check the Context
Context is key when searching for any set of verses. It is all too easy to find a Scripture about prayer KJV or otherwise and twist it to say anything you please.
Growing up in the era when KJV was still king I often wondered if people preferred it because it was so hard to understand which made it easier to twist. But then that is the cynic in me.
So, whether you search out Scriptures about prayer KJV or NASB or ESV or any other version of the Bible, be careful. Read the entire section around the verse to be sure you understand what God meant when He inspired it.
An Example of a Verse Out of Context
Just to clarify, let me give you an example of how easy it would be to take a Scripture about prayer in the Bible out of context.
“If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it.” (John 14:14 ESV)
Some teach that John 14 gives us permission to pray for anything. All we have to do to ensure our wish is granted is tag our prayers with the name of Jesus.
However, if we read the entire chapter we see Jesus is talking about how to be one with God the Father, and how Jesus himself obeys God in all things. He then follows this verse talking about loving Him by being obedient to Him.
So the point of this verse is not that God will grant our every wish. Nope. The point is that we are to live life obeying God, in unity with the Spirit. We are to pray prayers asking for things that are in line with God’s will. Then, as we ask in Jesus’ name, we will have an answer.
Do you see how easily we can go astray?
Apply Them To Your Life
Life is hard in certain seasons. We all face challenges and need real help. Prayer is a powerful way to find the help you need. As you search for Bible verses about prayer and faith, don’t just stop at finding the verses and writing in your journal. Apply them!
How do you apply Bible verses to your life?
- Pray them back to God.
- Write them out as prayers so you can use them over and over again.
- Talk about them with your family and friends to help them sink in deeper.
The power of prayer verses is that they are packed with promises. Don’t miss out on the blessings they promise by allowing busyness and distraction to keep you from praying.
Go Deeper with Scripture about Prayer
I love that you have searched this out and are looking for Bible verses on prayer pdfs and blog posts and all of that! The main reason I searched out Scriptures that talk about prayer is because I am writing a Bible study about prayer.
If you want to go deeper, here is what will be taught:
- What is prayer and why every Christian needs to pray?
- How to pray:
- With the right heart – It is about a relationship, not a religious formula.
- Logistics – where, when, and how to create a discipline or routine that lasts.
- Hindrances to prayer
- Getting the relationship repaired – sin, idolatry, and forgiveness
- What to pray about that is in God’s will.
- Prayers God will answer.
- How to make your prayer life more powerful
- Praying Scripture
- Fasting and Prayer
- Acknowledging and Celebrating answers to prayer to grow in faith
- Creating a Prayer Strategy
Over 200 Scripture About Prayer
Without further ado, here are the prayer Scriptures KJV, NASB, and ESV mostly. However, feel free to follow the links to BIblegateway.com and switch out the version. I do that often
Bible Verses About Prayer ~
What is prayer to God? Relationship. And in the beginning, it was a face-to-face relationship.
“Now they heard the sound of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day” (Genesis 3:8 NASB)
Related Post: 65 Bible Verses About Prayer to Challenge Your Faith
God Initiated the Relationship
What’s more, God initiated the relationship. He is also the one who maintains it today.
“Now they heard the sound of the Lord God walking in the garden in the [a]cool of the day…” (Genesis 3:8-9 NASB)
“So the Lord was sorry that He had made mankind on the earth, and He was grieved in His heart.” (Genesis 6:5-22 NASB)
“Now the Lord said to Abram,
“Go from your country…” (Genesis 12:1-5 NASB)
200 Scripture About Prayer To Grow Your Faith And Help You in Spiritual Warfare! Share on X“The angel of the Lord appeared to him in a blazing fire from the midst of a bush…” (Exodus 3:1-6 NASB)
Scripture about Prayer is About Relationship
And prayer is just our side of the conversation in this greater relationship.
“Where shall I go from your Spirit?
Or where shall I flee from your presence?” (Psalm 139:7-8 NASB)
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life…” (John 3:16-17 NASB)
“This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” (1 John 4:10 NASB)
Bible Verses That Say God Hears Our Prayers~
God answers prayer!
“Call to Me and I will answer you, and I will tell you great and [a]mighty things, which you do not know.” (Jeremiah 33:3 NASB)
“And on that day you will not question Me about anything. Truly, truly I say to you, if you ask the Father for anything in My name, He will give it to you.” (John 16:23 NASB)
He hears and answers!
“This is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.” (1 John 5:14-15 NASB)
What Brings Answers?
Trust brings answers from God
“…for they cried out to God in the battle, and He answered their prayers because they trusted in Him.” (1 Chronicles 5:20 NASB)
Be self-controlled for answered prayer
“Be hospitable to one another without complaint.” (1 Peter 4:9 NASB)
“and whatever we ask, we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do the things that are pleasing in His sight.” (1 John 3:22 NASB)
God Hears Prayers
Yes, God hears prayer!
“Then the Levitical priests stood and blessed the people; and their voice was heard and their prayer came to His holy dwelling place, to heaven.” (2 Chronicles 30:27 NASB)
“This is how I will treat this place and its inhabitants,” declares the Lord, “so as to make this city like Topheth.” (Jeremiah 19:12 NASB)
“You will pray to Him, and He will hear you” (Job 22:27 NASB)
“You who hear prayer,
To You all mankind comes.” (Psalm 65:2 NASB)
God Hears the Prayers of the Righteous
“The Lord is far from the wicked,
But He hears the prayer of the righteous.” (Proverbs 15:29 NASB)
He hears righteous prayer
“For the eyes of the Lord are toward the righteous…” (1 Peter 3:12 NASB)
“In my distress, I called upon the Lord,
And cried to my God for help;
He heard my voice from His temple…” (Psalm 18:6 NASB)
Will He Listen to Your Prayers?
You can pray for God to hear you.
“So Moses cried out to the Lord, saying, “God, heal her, please!” (Numbers 12:13 NASB)
He will listen when we pray.
“Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.” (Jeremiah 29:12-14 NASB)
Bible Verses About the Benefits of Prayer~
Prayer draws God near.
“The Lord is near to all who call upon Him,
To all who call upon Him in truth.” (Psalm 145:18 NASB)
Prayer is like incense, a pleasing aroma to God.
“May my prayer be counted as incense before You;
The lifting up of my hands as the evening offering.” (Psalm 141:2 NASB)
Nothing is impossible with God.
“For nothing will be impossible with God.” (Luke 1:37 NASB)
Prayer Delights God
“The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord,
But the prayer of the upright is His delight.” (Proverbs 15:8 NASB)
Prayer changes us.
“And while He was praying, the appearance of His face became different, and His clothing became white and gleaming.” (Luke 9:29 NASB)
We bear fruit when we pray.
“You did not choose Me but I chose you, and appointed you that you would go and bear fruit, and that your fruit would remain, so that whatever you ask of the Father in My name He may give to you.” (John 15:16 NASB)
Prayer fights anxiety.
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6 NASB)
Prayer Sanctifies Things
“for it is sanctified by means of the word of God and prayer.” (1 Timothy 4:5 NASB)
The intentions of our hearts are revealed through prayer.
“Therefore repent of this wickedness of yours, and pray the Lord that, if possible, the intention of your heart may be forgiven you.” (Acts 8:22 NASB)
Prayer brings miracles.
“ Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the earth for three years and six months…” (James 5:17-18 NASB)
Related: All the verses above are part of the Prayer Bible Study section: What is prayer?*
Scripture About How to Pray ~
If you are searching out Scripture about prayer warriors, what you really need are these verses. They talk about how to pray in a way that pleases God. How to pray in a way that brings answers. That is what prayer warriors do!
The Model Prayer
The Model Prayer as taught by Jesus Himself.
“When you pray, say:
‘Father, hallowed be Your name.
Your kingdom come.
Give us each day our daily bread.
And forgive us our sins,
For we ourselves also forgive everyone who is indebted to us.
And do not lead us into temptation.’” (Luke 11:1-4 NASB)
Scripture About Prayer and the Image of God
When praying, it helps to picture God in the room with you. But first, you need an idea about what He looks like.
“So God created man in his own image…” (Genesis 1:27 NASB)
“Now they heard the sound of the Lord God walking…” (Genesis 3:8 NASB)
“I saw the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up; and the train of his robe filled the temple.”(Isaiah 6:1 NASB)
Details About The Throne Room
“And above the expanse over their heads there was the likeness of a throne, in appearance like sapphire; and seated above the likeness of a throne was a likeness with a human appearance. And upward from what had the appearance of his waist I saw as it were gleaming metal, like the appearance of fire enclosed all around. And downward from what had the appearance of his waist I saw as it were the appearance of fire, and there was brightness around him. Like the appearance of the bow that is in the cloud on the day of rain, so was the appearance of the brightness all around.
Such was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the Lord. And when I saw it, I fell on my face, and I heard the voice of one speaking.” (Ezekiel 1:26-28 NASB)
The Ancient of Days
“As I looked, thrones were placed,
and the Ancient of Days took his seat;
his clothing was white as snow,
and the hair of his head like pure wool;
his throne was fiery flames;
its wheels were burning fire.” (Daniel 7:9 NASB)
A Mighty Warrior
“The Lord your God is in your midst,
a mighty one who will save;
he will rejoice over you with gladness;
he will quiet you by his love;
he will exult over you with loud singing.”(Zephaniah 3:17 NASB)
“For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12 NASB)
Jesus was with God in the Beginning
” In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” (John 1:1 NASB)
‘And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” (John 1:14 NASB)
Character Traits
The Lord is a consuming fire.
“for our God is a consuming fire.” (Hebrews 12:29 NASB)
He is light.
“This is the message we have heard from Him and announce to you, that God is Light, and in Him there is no darkness at all.” (1 John 1:5 NASB)
Revelation Descriptions of God
“Then I turned to see the voice that was speaking to me, and on turning I saw seven golden lampstands, and in the midst of the lampstands one like a son of man, clothed with a long robe and with a golden sash around his chest. The hairs of his head were white, like white wool, like snow. His eyes were like a flame of fire, his feet were like burnished bronze, refined in a furnace, and his voice was like the roar of many waters.” (Revelation 1:12-15 NASB)
“And he who sat there had the appearance of jasper and carnelian, and around the throne was a rainbow that had the appearance of an emerald.” (Revelation 4:3 NASB)
A Terrifying Picture from Revelations
“Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse! The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he judges and makes war. His eyes are like a flame of fire, and on his head are many diadems, and he has a name written that no one knows but himself.
He is clothed in a robe dipped in blood, and the name by which he is called is The Word of God. And the armies of heaven, arrayed in fine linen, white and pure, were following him on white horses.
From his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations, and he will rule them with a rod of iron. He will tread the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God the Almighty.
On his robe and on his thigh he has a name written, King of kings and Lord of lords.” (Revelation 19:11-16 NASB)
Bible Verses About Humility for Prayer
Praying strong prayers, requires a heart posture of humility.
“But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” (James 4:6 NASB)
“…I tell you, this man went to his house justified rather than the other one; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.” (Luke 18:10-14 NASB)
“You ask and do not receive, because you ask with the wrong motives, so that you may spend what you request on your pleasures.” (James 4:3 NASB)
“And when you are praying, do not use thoughtless repetition as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard because of their many words. So do not be like them; for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him.” (Matthew 6:7-8 NASB)
Pray Confidently
We can come to the LORD in humility but also with confidence. How can both exist? We are children of God.
We are adopted sons and can have confidence.
“he predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will…” (Ephesians 1:5 ESV)
Pray without fear.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and pleading with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God…” (Philippians 4:6-7 NASB)
Pray with confidence.
“Therefore let’s approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace for help at the time of our need.” (Hebrews 4:16 NASB)
Openness and Community in Prayer
It is critical we pray openly. Share all the real feelings with the Lord. He also instructs us to pray in a communitity. That will come up again in where to pray.
Don’t be afraid to talk to God about all your feelings like Jesus in the Garden
“…And He went a little beyond them, and fell on His face and prayed, saying, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; yet not as I will, but as You will…” (Matthew 26:36-46 NASB)
David was also transparent.
“Be gracious to me, God, according to Your faithfulness;
According to the greatness of Your compassion, wipe out my wrongdoings.
Wash me thoroughly from my guilt
And cleanse me from my sin…” (Psalms 51 NASB))
Scripture About Prayer and Faith
Faith is believing in God to the point that you will act on what He says. Prayer is a way to demonstrate that faith and grow that faith.
Pray to believe and pray in faith.
“Therefore, I say to you, all things for which you pray and ask, believe that you have received them, and they will be granted to you.” (Mark 11:24 NASB)
“… And all things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.” (Matthew 21:21-22 NASB)
Answered Prayers Bring Faith to Pay More
“For You, my God, have revealed to Your servant that You will build him a house; therefore Your servant has found courage to pray before You.” (1 Chronicles 17:25 NASB)
“And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests which we have asked from Him.” (1 John 5:15 NASB)
Pray Without Doubting
“But he must ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind.” (James 1:6 NASB)
Pray without fear.
“…And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7 NASB)
Scripture about Prayer: Abide and Ask
The Bible says much about abiding. Dwelling. Living with Jesus. We are with Him all the time and prayer helps us bear fruit in that place.
Abide in Him to get answers in prayer!
“If you remain in Me, and My words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.” (John 15:7 NASB)
How to Pray While Abiding
Pray simply.
“And when you are praying, do not use thoughtless repetition as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard because of their many words.” (Matthew 6:7 NASB)
Ask!
“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” (Matthew 7:7 NASB)
“So I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. (Luke 11:9 NASB)
“…You do not have because you do not ask.”(James 4:2 NASB)
Related Post: 8 Ways To Abide in Christ and Fight Spiritual Dryness
Character Issues With Prayer
Effective prayer must flow from a heart that is clean. Addressing these character issues will help you get started.
Pray selflessly.
“You ask and do not receive, because you ask with the wrong motives, so that you may spend what you request on your pleasures.” (James 4:3 NASB)
Pray in Jesus’ name.
“And whatever you ask in My name, this I will do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 If you ask Me anything in My name, I will do it.” (John 14:13-14 NASB)
“Until now you have asked for nothing in My name; ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be made full.” (John 16:23-24 NASB)
More Scripture About Prayer Character
Pray humbly.
“ I tell you, this man went to his house justified rather than the other one; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.” (Luke 18:10-14 NASB)
Pray with Joy.
“always offering prayer with joy in my every prayer for you all,” (Philippians 1:4 NASB)
Give thanks in prayer.
“We give thanks to God always for all of you, making mention of you in our prayers;” (1 Thessalonians 1:2 NASB)
“I thank God, whom I serve with a clear conscience…” (2 Timothy 1:3)
“I thank my God always, making mention of you in my prayers,” (Philemon 1:4 NASB)
(There are lots of others just like this!)
Pray thanking God.
“We give thanks to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you,” (Colossians 1:3 NASB)
Be Devoted to Prayer
The early church was devoted to prayer. They recognized the power and privilege of relationships tied to prayer. We see God moving in powerful ways as a result.
“All these were continually devoting themselves with one mind to prayer…” (Acts 1:14 NASB)
“They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” (Acts 2:42 NASB)
Those in ministry are to be devoted to prayer.
“But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word…” (Acts 6:4-6 NASB)
Devotion to Prayer is a Command
“Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving…” (Colossians 4:2 NASB)
Scripture About When to Pray ~
These verses are about creating a discipline of prayer, a prayer routine. They help you move past being too busy or distracted to pray. There are several Spiritual Disciplines and prayer is near the top of the list.
Always Pray
There is no perfect time to pray. We are called to pray always, continually.
Pray always.
“pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17 NASB)
“With every prayer and request, pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be alert with all perseverance and every request for all the saints…” (Ephesians 6:18 NASB)
How To Pray Always?
Pray always – awake – to be ready for His coming.
“But stay alert at all times, praying that you will have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.” (Luke 21:36 NASB)
“The end of all things is near; therefore, be of sound judgment and sober spirit for the purpose of prayer. (1 Peter 4:7 NASB)
Scriptures About Praying Persistently
Pray steadfastly.
“Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving;” (Colossians 4:2 NASB)
Constantly / fervently Pray
“rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer,” (Romans 12:12 NASB)
Pray persistently.
“Now He was telling them a parable to show that at all times they ought to pray and not become discouraged.” (Luke 18:1 NASB)
“He went away again a second time and prayed, saying, “My Father, if this cup cannot pass away unless I drink from it, Your will be done.” (Matthew 26:42 NASB)
“…Keep watching and praying, so that you will not come into temptation; the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak…” (Mark 14:32-42 NASB)
Don’t Lose Heart in Prayer
The persistent widow’s story is a good example to us all.
“Now He was telling them a parable to show that at all times they ought to pray and not become discouraged, saying,
“In a certain city there was a judge who did not fear God and did not respect any person. Now there was a widow in that city, and she kept coming to him, saying,
‘Give me justice against my opponent.’ For a while he was unwilling; but later he said to himself, ‘Even though I do not fear God nor respect any person, yet because this widow is bothering me, I will give her justice; otherwise by continually coming she will wear me out.’”And the Lord said,
“Listen to what the unrighteous judge *said; now, will God not bring about justice for His elect who cry out to Him day and night, and will He delay long for them? I tell you that He will bring about justice for them quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?” (Luke 18:1-8 NASB)
Specific Times People Prayed
Examples of times that other people prayed are helpful. Here are a couple that inspires my faith walk (There are more)***
Jesus prayed all night.
“Now it was at this time that He went off to the mountain to pray, and He spent the whole night in prayer with God.” (Luke 6:12 NASB)
Pray first thing in the morning.
“In the morning, Lord, You will hear my voice;
In the morning I will present my prayer to You and be on the watch” (Psalm 5:3 NASB)
“And in the early morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house, and went away to a secluded place, and prayed there for a time.” (Mark 1:35 NASB)
Pray Steadfastly
Along the lines of always praying is praying persistently. Do not give up praying about something important to you.
- Pray steadfastly – (Colossians 4:2 NASB)
- Pray constantly / fervently – (Romans 12:12 NASB)
Pray When Discouraged
At times we become discouraged. Even in discouragement, however, pray. Keep praying no matter what you feel. Pray especially when you are discouraged.
“So all of them conspired together to come to fight against Jerusalem and to cause confusion in it. But we prayed to our God, and because of them we set up a guard against them day and night.” (Nehemiah 4:8-9 NASB)
Pray During Trials
There are seasons it almost feels impossible to pray. The words just won’t come out. Pray anyway. Cry or whisper, just pray.
Some prayers will only come out as whispers. Especially when we are enduring correction.
“Lord, they sought You in distress;
They could only whisper a prayer,
Your discipline was upon them. (Isaiah 26:16 NASB)
Tears Accompany Some Prayers
“Now it came about, as she continued praying before the Lord, that Eli was watching her mouth.” (1 Samuel 1:12 NASB)
“n the days of His flesh, He offered up both prayers and supplications with loud crying and tears to the One able to save Him from death, and He was heard because of His piety.” (Hebrews 5:7 NASB)
Bible Verses About Where to Pray~
I know a lot of people get excited about a prayer closet or a prayer war room. There are even Scripture about prayer closets that encourage that. Personally, I believe if we are to pray always, then prayer should happen everywhere. But we will get more into that in the Bible Study About Prayer*!
Pray Everywhere/Prayer Posture
In order to pray always, you must pray everywhere. There are some other notes about how to pray here as well.
I love this formula; Pray everywhere – lift holy hands – without anger/fighting.
“Therefore I want the men in every place to pray, lifting up holy hands, without anger and dispute.” (1 Timothy 2:8 NASB)
“ When Solomon had finished praying this entire prayer and plea to the Lord, he stood up from the altar of the Lord, from kneeling on his knees with his hands spread toward heaven.” (1 Kings 8:54 NASB)*** add
We are called to pray while kneeling throughout the day. Do we do this now adays?
“Now when Daniel learned that the document was signed, he entered his house (and in his roof chamber he had windows open toward Jerusalem); and he continued kneeling on his knees three times a day, praying and offering praise before his God, just as he had been doing previously.” (Daniel 6:10 NASB)
Pray in Community
A specific place to pray is in community. There is something to be said for praying in secret, but remember all of Scripture holds the key to context. In secret is not the only place to pray. We learn and grow together when we pray together.
Pray in Community or Groups
“Again I say to you, that if two of you agree on earth about anything that they may ask, it shall be done for them by My Father who is in heaven. For where two or three have gathered together in My name, I am there in their midst.” (Matthew 18:19-20 NASB)
“And the whole multitude of the people were in prayer outside at the hour of the incense offering.” (Luke 1:10 NASB)
Pray in Church
God’s house is a house of prayer. Praying in the church is a powerful thing.
“Even those I will bring to My holy mountain,
And make them joyful in My house of prayer.
Their burnt offerings and their sacrifices will be acceptable on My altar;
For My house will be called a house of prayer for all the peoples.” (Isaiah 56:7 NASB)
“And He *said to them, “It is written: ‘My house will be called a house of prayer’; but you are making it a den of robbers.” (Matthew 21:13 NASB) & (Mark 11:17 NASB)& (Luke 19:46 NASB)
How many times did Jesus quote scripture?* Just one more thing to research later!
Your Body is A Temple of God
Jesus reiterated the Old Testament point that prayer should be a main event in Church. Then He took it a step further saying we are to pray as our bodies (after salvation) house the Holy Spirit making them a temple. ****
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own;” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20 NIV)
Pray in Special Places
Apart from in church, there are special places to pray. Places where you have met with the Lord, perhaps.
There are special places of prayer.
“It happened that as we were going to the place of prayer, a slave woman who had a spirit of divination met us, who was bringing great profit to her masters by fortune-telling.” (Acts 16:16 & :25 NASB)
Pray in Secret Places
Then of course, we are told to not pray in order to impress others. Most of our praying should be done alone in secret. This is about building a relationship with Jesus, not about looking holy and religious to others.
“Take care not to practice your righteousness in the sight of people, to be noticed by them; otherwise you have no reward with your Father who is in heaven.”
“And when you pray, you are not to be like the hypocrites; for they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and on the street corners so that they will be seen by people. Truly I say to you, they have their reward in full. But as for you, when you pray, go into your inner room, close your door, and pray to your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you.
“And when you are praying, do not use thoughtless repetition as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard because of their many words.” (Matthew 6:1 & 5-7 NASB)
“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you devour widows’ houses, and for a pretense make long prayers. Therefore you will receive greater.” (Matthew 23:14 (NKJV)
Retreat to pray
Get alone at any cost to pray. A prayer retreat is a great way to do this.
“After He had sent the crowds away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray; and when it was evening, He was there alone.” (Matthew 14:23 NASB)
“And after saying goodbye to them, He left for the mountain to pray.” (Mark 6:46 NASB)
“But Jesus Himself would often slip away to the wilderness and pray.” (Luke 5:16 NASB)
“And it happened that while He was praying alone, the disciples were with Him, and He questioned them, saying, “Who do the people say that I am?” Luke 9:18 NASB)
Hindrances To Prayer~
Throughout these Scriptures on prayer, we see that God answers prayer. We are called to pray at all times, about everything, in every place. So it may feel confusing to hear me say there are things that hinder our prayers.
The Bible is clear that some things stop our prayers from being heard or answered by God.
Scripture About Sin and Prayer
Sin stands between us and God, stopping His hand from moving in our lives. It is important for Christians to repent of any known sin and to walk blamelessly before the Lord. Sin separates us from God.
“But your wrongdoings have caused a separation between you and your God,
And your sins have hidden His face from you so that He does not hear.” (Isaiah 59:2 NASB)
Cherished sin blocks prayer.
“If I regard wickedness in my heart,
The Lord will not hear;” (Psalm 66:18 NASB)
Confession Fixes this Block
Prayer can keep us from sin.
“Now she who is a widow indeed and who has been left alone, has fixed her hope on God and continues in entreaties and prayers night and day.” (1 Timothy 5:5-6 NASB)
Confess sin in prayer.
“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous, so that He will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9 NASB)
“Please forgive the guilt of this people in accordance with the greatness of Your mercy, just as You also have forgiven this people, from Egypt even until now.” (Numbers 14:19 NASB)(actual prayer)
Confess sin, be righteous, leads to powerful prayer.
“Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another so that you may be healed. The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much.” (James 5:16 NASB)
Relational Issues Must Be Handled to Fix Prayer Life
Deal with relationship issues before you pray.
“Now if your brother sins, go and show him his fault in private; if he listens to you, you have gained your brother.” (Matthew 18:15 NASB)
Marital problems hinder prayers.
“You husbands in the same way, live with your wives in an understanding way, as with someone weaker, since she is a woman; and show her honor as a fellow heir of the grace of life, so that your prayers will not be hindered.” (1 Peter 3:7 NASB)
Things that Block Prayer in Scripture
There are other things that block prayer. Things we might not think of as sins, though God sees them as sins. These verses are hard to read but read them with the image of God and your relationship with God in mind.
When we don’t read the Bible – listen to the law – prayer is an abomination
“One who turns his ear away from listening to the Law,
Even his prayer is an abomination.” (Proverbs 28:9 NASB)
Unforgiveness blocks prayer.
“And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father who is in heaven will also forgive you for your [a]offenses.” (Mark 11:25 NASB)
“Therefore, repent of this wickedness of yours, and pray to the Lord that, if possible, the intention of your heart will be forgiven you.” (Acts 8:22 NASB)
Times When God Does Not Hear Prayer
There is a time God will not hear prayer.
“Therefore, let everyone who is godly pray to You in a time when You may be found…” (Psalm 32:6 NASB)
“But as for me, my prayer is to You, Lord, at an acceptable time;
God, in the greatness of Your mercy,
Answer me with Your saving truth.” (Psalm 69:13 NASB)
“So when you spread out your hands in prayer,
I will hide My eyes from you…” (Isaiah 1:15 NASB)
God Instructs Prophets Not To Pray
“So as for you, do not pray for this people, nor lift up a cry or prayer for them; for I will not listen when they call to Me because of their disaster.” (Jeremiah 11:14 NASB)
“So the Lord said to me, “Do not pray for a good outcome on behalf of this people.” (Jeremiah 14:11 NASB)
“Even when I cry out and call for help,
He shuts out my prayer.“You have veiled Yourself with a cloud
So that no prayer can pass through.” (Lamentations 3:8; 44 NASB)
Idolatry Blocks Prayer
“Therefore speak to them and tell them, ‘This is what the Lord God says: “Anyone of the house of Israel who sets up his idols in his heart, puts in front of his face the stumbling block of his wrongdoing, and then comes to the prophet,
I the Lord will let Myself answer him in the matter in view of the multitude of his idols, in order to take hold of the hearts of the house of Israel who have turned away from Me due to all their idols.”’(*Ezekiel 14:1-8 NASB)
Bible Verses About What to Pray About~
When I began this search on Scripture about prayer and faith I knew there were some specific things. I never realized how many specific things we are told to pray about, however.
God tells us to pray. He really means for us to pray about everything! These are some things you can pray for with confidence because HE said to pray about them!
“but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6 NASB)
Wisdom and Direction
Wisdom and direction are common prayers for Believers. They are also 100% Biblical requests He will answer.
“But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and [a]without reproach, and it will be given to him.” (James 1:5 NASB)
Pray about big decisions.
“ Now it was at this time that He went off to the mountain to pray, and He spent the whole night in prayer with God. And when day came, He called His disciples to Him and chose twelve of them…” (Luke 6:12-13 NASB)
“And they prayed and said, “You, Lord, who know the hearts of all people, show which one of these two You have chosen.” (Acts 1:24 NASB)
Pray for Specific Direction and God Answers Specifically
“Will the citizens of Keilah hand me over to him? Will Saul come down just as Your servant has heard? Lord God of Israel, please, tell Your servant.” And the Lord said, “He will come down.” (1 Samuel 23:11 NASB)
Prayer for revelation – open his eyes to see the supernatural battle.
“Then Elisha prayed and said, “Lord, please, open his eyes so that he may see.” And the Lord opened the servant’s eyes, and he saw; and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.” (2 Kings 6:17 NASB)
Favor
Did you know you can also pray for favor? If the Lord is King of kings, it only follows that He can masterfully open any door.
Pray for favor in trials.
“if you also join in helping us through your prayers, so that thanks may be given by many persons in our behalf for the favor granted to us through the prayers of many.” (2 Corinthians 1:11 NASB)
“Moreover, pray that when you flee, it will not be in the winter, or on a Sabbath.” (Matthew 24:20 NASB)
Ask the Lord for favor, Who opens and closes doors.
“He who is holy, who is true, who has the key of David, who opens and no one will shut, and who shuts and no one opens, says this:” (Revelation 3:7 NASB)
Over Trails and Suffering
When I read these I see Bible verses about prayer during hard times. We all have hard times, these are verses to help!
Pray in suffering.
“Is anyone among you suffering? Then he must pray.” (James 5:13 NASB)
Pary for trials to pass.
“And He went a little beyond them, and fell on His face and prayed, saying, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; yet not as I will, but as You will.” (Matthew 26:39 NASB)
Pray for trials to not happen in harsh times.
“Moreover, pray that it will not happen in winter.” (Mark 13:18 NASB)
Pray to Be Avenged When Wronged
“Vindicate me, Lord, for I have walked in my integrity…” (Psalm 26:1 NASB)
“Vindicate me, God, and plead my case against an ungodly nation…” (Psalm 43:1 NASB)
Personal Needs
The Lord also knows that we have needs. He cares about what we care about. We can bring our personal requests to Him with confidence.
“having cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares about you. (1 Peter 5:7 NASB)
Pray for friends when in distress.
“Then Jesus *came with them to a place called Gethsemane, and *told His disciples, “Sit here while I go over there and pray.” (Matthew 26:36 NASB)
Prayer for infertility.
“Isaac prayed to the Lord on behalf of his wife, because she was unable to have children; and the Lord answered him, and his wife Rebekah conceived. (Genesis 25:21 NASB)
Seek His strength.
“Seek the Lord and His strength;” (1 Chronicle 16:11 NASB)
Faith Needs
Not just personal needs can be brought in prayer, but faith needs also. The Lord cares that our faith is growing.
Pray to see God’s glory.
“Then Moses said, “Please, show me Your glory!” (Exodus 33:18 NASB)
You can also pray to glorify God with your life.
“Jesus spoke these things; and raising His eyes to heaven, He said, “Father, the hour has come; glorify Your Son, so that the Son may glorify You…” (John 17:1 NASB)
Pray for the Things you Desire
“always in my prayers requesting if perhaps now, at last by the will of God, I will succeed in coming to you.” (Romans 1:10 NASB)
“as we night and day keep praying most earnestly that we may see your face, and may complete what is lacking in your faith?” (1 Thessalonians 3:10 NASB)
“At the same time also prepare me a lodging, for I hope that through your prayers I will be given to you.” (Philemon 1:22 NASB)
Spread of the Gospel
It is absolutely His will for the gospel to be spread. That is a prayer He will answer.
Pray for open doors the gospel.
“praying at the same time for us as well, that God will open up to us a door for the word, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I have also been imprisoned” (Colossians 4:3 NASB)
“Finally, brethren, pray for us that the word of the Lord will spread rapidly and be glorified, just as it did also with you” (2 Thessalonians 3:1 NASB)
“Brothers and sisters, my heart’s desire and my prayer to God for them is for their salvation.” (Romans 10:1 NASB)
Pray for salvation.
National Needs
The Bible also tells us to pray for the city in which we live. Also, we are instructed to pray for Israel.
Pray for peace in Jeruselum.
“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem:” (Psalm 122:6 NASB)
Pray for the city where you are in exile.
“Seek the prosperity of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord in its behalf; for in its prosperity will be your prosperity.” (Jeremiah 29:7 NASB)
Church Needs
The church is dear to God’s heart. We are told to pray about several aspects of it
Choosing leaders in the Church.
“And they brought these men before the apostles; and after praying, they laid their hands on them.” (Acts 6:6 NASB)
The elders of the church pray over the sick.
“Is anyone among you sick? Then he must call for the elders of the church and they are to pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord;” (James 5:14 NASB)
Pray that what is spoken in tongues be interpreted.
“Therefore, one who speaks in a tongue is to pray that he may interpret…” (1 Corinthians 14:13-15 NASB)
Sending Others Out
When sending others out to begin ministry, we are told to pray over them.
Pray over those leaving.
“When he had said these things, he knelt down and prayed with them all.” (Acts 20:36 NASB)
“When our days there were ended, we left and started on our journey, while they all, with wives and children, escorted us until we were out of the city. After kneeling down on the beach and praying, we said farewell to one another.” (Acts 21:5 NASB)
Scripture About Prayer: Who to Pray For
Just as there are Bible verses about what to pray about, there are Bible verses about who to pray for. We are called to pray over and for others! Let’s see who specifically.
Pray for All People Verses
I hope you are seeing a theme in these Scriptures about prayer. Pray always, at all times, in all places and now we see pray for all people.
“First of all, then, I urge that requests, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made in behalf of all people…” (1 Timothy 2:1 NASB)
Pray for Christians
It only follows that we should pray for Believers. These verses however tell us what to pray for Christians.
Pray for Gospel workers.
“Therefore, plead with the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into His harvest.” (Matthew 9:38 NASB)
Pray for persecuted saints.
“So Peter was kept in the prison, but prayer for him was being made to God intensely by the church.” (Acts 12:5 NASB)
It would be a sin to not pray for God’s people.
“Furthermore, as for me, far be it from me that I would sin against the Lord by ceasing to pray for you; but I will instruct you in the good and right way.” (1 Samuel 12:23 NASB)
Pray for Enemies
Surprisingly, both the Old and New Testaments instruct us to pray for our enemies.
“But I say to you who hear, love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who are abusive to you.” (Luke 6: 27-28 NASB) & (Matthew 5:44 NASB)
Pray for enemies to fail at bringing you down
“Now someone informed David, saying, “Ahithophel is among the conspirators with Absalom.” And David said, “Lord, please make the advice of Ahithophel foolish.” (2 Samuel 15:31 NASB)
“And when they came down to him, Elisha prayed to the Lord and said, “Please strike this people with blindness.” So He struck them with blindness in accordance with the word of Elisha.” (2 Kings 6:18 NASB)
Pray for Leaders
And again, we are told to pray for our leaders. These would be government leaders. This follows as we are told to pray for our city and for peace the leaders have a hand in that.
“First of all, then, I urge that requests, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made in behalf of all people, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity.
This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” (1 Timothy 2:1-4 NASB)
Special Notes About Prayer^*
In my search for verses on prayer, I found some things that just didn’t fit into a category. These are things that felt important to know about prayer.
The prayers of the saints are in heaven.
“When He had taken the book, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each one holding a harp and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints.” (Revelation 5:8 NASB)
“Another angel came and stood at the altar, holding a golden censer; and much incense was given to him, so that he might add it to the prayers of all the saints on the golden altar which was before the throne.” (Revelation 8:3-4 NASB)
When More Than Prayer Is Needed
Sometimes we must do something for God to be moved by prayer.
“Then they buried the bones of Saul and his son Jonathan in the country of Benjamin in Zela, in the grave of his father Kish; So they did everything that the king commanded, and after that God responded to prayer for the land.” (2 Samuel 21:14 NASB)
“Then David built there an altar to the Lord, and he offered burnt offerings and peace offerings. And the Lord responded to prayer for the land, and the plague was withdrawn from Israel.” (2 Samuel 24:25 NASB)
God Wants Our Attention
Sometimes we miss what God said the first time and hard times come to get our attention… then when we pray He hears.
“…So the Lord spoke to Manasseh and his people, but they paid no attention. Therefore the Lord brought the commanders of the army of the king of Assyria against them, and they captured Manasseh with hooks, bound him with bronze chains, and led him to Babylon. When he was in distress, he appeased the Lord his God and humbled himself greatly before the God of his fathers…” (2 Chronicles 33:1-13 NASB)
God speaks directly through visions sometimes.
“And the Lord said to him, “Get up and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying…” (Acts 9:11 NASB)
“…About the ninth hour of the day he clearly saw in a vision an angel of God who had just come in and said to him, “Cornelius!…” (Acts 10:1-4 NASB)
“I was in the city of Joppa praying; and in a trance I saw a vision…” (Acts 11:5 NASB)
“But it happened that as I was on my way, approaching Damascus at about noon, a very bright light suddenly flashed from heaven all around me…” (Acts 22:6-22 NASB)
Ugly Prayers and Unbelievers Prayers
God can even handle our ugly prayers. The prayer of Jonah gives me hope
“Then he prayed to the Lord and said, “Please Lord, was this not what I said when I was still in my own country? Therefore in anticipation of this I fled to Tarshish…”(Jonah 4:2 NASB)
Even non-believers pray.
“Then they cried out to the Lord and said, “We earnestly pray, O Lord, do not let us perish on account of this man’s life, and do not put innocent blood on us; for You, Lord, have done as You pleased.” (Jonah 1:14 NASB)
How To Make Your Prayer Life More Powerful
Developing the Spiritual discipline of prayer is very important. Sadly, most people begin to pray, fall into a routine of simple prayers and never grow in this discipline.
If you want to grow into a prayer warrior, you need these Verses to help make your prayer life more powerful!
Verses About The Holy Spirit and Prayer
The Holy Spirit is an active member of the Godhead. He lives within us and Jesus said He is our helper. He can help us grow in prayer and stay connected to the Father in powerful ways.
Holy Spirit is a gift from Jesus to help us.
“I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, so that He may be with you forever;” (John 14:16 NASB)
God the Father gives the Holy Spirit to help in prayer.
“So if you, despite being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him?”(Luke 11:13 NASB)
The Holy Spirit Helps Us
Yes, the Holy Spirit helps our prayers.
“Now in the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know what to pray for as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words…” (Romans 8:26-27 NASB)
The Holy Spirit is moved and comes through prayer.
“And when they had prayed, the place where they had gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak the word of God with boldness.” (Acts 4:31 NASB)
“… Then they began laying their hands on them, and they were receiving the Holy Spirit.” (Acts 8:5; 17 NASB)
Pray in The Spirit
You can pray in the Holy Spirit to grow in faith.
“But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit…” (Jude 1:20 NASB)
Pray in the Spirit.
“But as for you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face,so that your fasting will not be noticed by people but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you.” (Matthew 6:16-18 NASB)
Scripture About Prayer and Healing
There is so much Scripture about prayer and healing that we can not ignore this gift. Now, I grew up believing this power died with the Apostles, however it existed before them so it stands to reason it exists after them.
Prayer brings healing and revival.
“and My people who are called by My name humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” (2 Chronicles 7:14 NASB)
“And it happened that the father of Publius was lying in bed afflicted with a recurring fever and dysentery. Paul went in to see him, and after he prayed, he laid his hands on him and healed him.” (Acts 28:8 NASB)
“and the prayer offered in faith will restore the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up…” (James 5:15 NASB)
“Beloved, I pray that in all respects you may prosper and be in good health, just as your soul prospers.” (3 John 1:2 NASB)
Lay Hands on People While Praying (For Healing and Ministry)
“Then some children were brought to Him so that He would lay His hands on them and pray; and the disciples rebuked them.” (Matthew 19:13 NASB)
“ who came down and prayed for them that they would receive the Holy Spirit.” (Acts 8:15 NASB)
Prayer Can Heal
There are so many instances in Scripture where the sick are healed through prayer. These are just a few that inspire me.
“Then Abraham prayed to God, and God healed Abimelech and his wife and his female slaves, so that they gave birth to children.” (Genesis 20:17 NASB)
“And the king responded and said to the man of God, “Please appease the Lord your God and pray for me, so that my hand may be restored to me.” So the man of God appeased the Lord, and the king’s hand was restored to him, and it became as it was before.” (1 Kings 13:6 NASB)
“Then he stretched himself out over the boy three times, and called to the Lord and said, “Lord, my God, please, let this boy’s life return to him.” (1 Kings 17:21 NASB)
The elders of the church pray over the sick.
“Is anyone among you sick? Then he must call for the elders of the church and they are to pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord…” (James 5:14 NASB)
Prayer Can Spare Life
Not only can prayer heal, it can spare life!
“Now then, return the man’s wife, for he is a prophet, and he will pray for you and you will live. But if you do not return her, know that you will certainly die, you and all who are yours.” (Genesis 20:7 NASB)
“The people then cried out to Moses; and Moses prayed to the Lord, and the fire died out.” (Numbers 11:2 NASB)
“The Lord was also angry enough with Aaron to destroy him; so I also prayed for Aaron at the same time.”(Deuteronomy 9:20; 26 NASB)
“Then all the people said to Samuel, “Pray to the Lord your God for your servants, so that we do not die; for we have added to all our sins this evil, by asking for ourselves a king.” (1 Samuel 12:19 NASB)
Pray the Dead Back to Life
“So he entered and shut the door behind them both, and he prayed to the Lord. Then he got up on the bed and lay on the child, and put his mouth on his mouth, his eyes on his eyes, his hands on his hands, and he bent down on him; and the flesh of the child became warm.
Then he returned and walked in the house back and forth once, and went up and bent down on him; and the boy sneezed seven times, then the boy opened his eyes.
And he called Gehazi and said, “Call this Shunammite.” So he called her. And when she came to him, he said, “Pick up your son.” Then she came in and fell at his feet and bowed down to the ground, and she picked up her son and left.” (2 Kings 4:33-37 NASB)
“But Peter sent them all out and knelt down and prayed, and turning to the body, he said, “Tabitha, arise.” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter, she sat up.” (Acts 9:40 NASB)
This is something fascinating about prayer that I want to dig more deeply into. How many others?****
Related Post: How To Fast and Pray in a Way that Pleases God
Scripture about Prayer and Fasting^*
Scripture about prayer changes things! This Scripture about prayer and fasting takes change to the next level.
Earlier we talked about the need for humility and the right character. Fasting with prayer helps us get to that place.
“Now when I heard these words, I sat down and wept and mourned for days; and I was fasting and praying before the God of heaven.” (Nehemiah 1:4 NASB)
“But as for me, when they were sick, my clothing was sackcloth;
I humbled my soul with fasting,
But my prayer kept returning to me.” (Psalm 35:13 NASB)
“So I gave my attention to the Lord God, to seek Him by prayer and pleading, with fasting, sackcloth, and ashes.” (Daniel 9:3 NASB)
Jesus’ Words About Fasting
Did you know Jesus said we would fast?
“Whenever you fast, do not put on a gloomy face as the hypocrites do, for they neglect their appearance so that they will be noticed by men when they are fasting” (Matthew 6:16-18 NASB)
“However, this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.” (Matthew 17:21 NKJV)
Examples of People Who Fast
“and then as a widow to the age of eighty-four. She did not leave the temple grounds, serving night and day with fasts and prayers.” (Luke 2:37 NASB)
“And they said to Him, “The disciples of John often fast and offer prayers, the disciples of the Pharisees also do the same, but Yours eat and drink.” (Luke 5:33 NASB)+
Fasting in Ministry
“Then, when they had fasted, prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.” (Acts 13:3 NASB)
“When they had appointed elders for them in every church, having prayed with fasting, they entrusted them to the Lord in whom they had believed.” (Acts 14:23 NASB)
Caution For Fasting
Be careful when fasting from sexual intimacy.
“Stop depriving one another, except by agreement for a time so that you may devote yourselves to prayer, and come together again so that Satan will not tempt you because of your lack of self-control…” (1 Corinthians 7:5 NASB)
Related Post: 27 Fasting and Prayer Scriptures for Spiritual Breakthrough
Intercessory Prayer Scriptures^*
There are countless bible verses about praying for others. These Scripture about prayer for others, however, give us a rounded understanding.
Intercessory prayer is a mandate to us all. It stays in line with the command to pray for all people, and pray for all the saints. Intercessory prayer scriptures also help us get our eyes off our own struggles and fight the bigger battle.
“Then Samuel said, “Gather all Israel to Mizpah and I will pray to the Lord for you.”(1 Samuel 7:5 NASB)
“For a multitude of the people, many from Ephraim and Manasseh, and Issachar and Zebulun, had not purified themselves, yet they ate the Passover contrary to what was written. For Hezekiah prayed for them, saying, “May the good Lord pardon everyone” (2 Chronicles 30:17-19 NASB)
“so that they may offer acceptable sacrifices to the God of heaven and pray for the lives of the king and his sons.” (Ezra 6:10 NASB)
“…and My servant Job will pray for you. For I will accept him…”(Job 42:8-10 NASB)
“Yet King Zedekiah sent Jehucal the son of Shelemiah, and the priest Zephaniah the son of Maaseiah, to Jeremiah the prophet, saying, “Please pray to the Lord our God in our behalf…”(Jeremiah 37:3; 42:2 NASB)
New Testament Examples of Intercession
“but I have prayed for you, that your faith will not fail; and you, when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” (Luke 22:32 NASB)”
“So Peter was kept in the prison, but prayer for him was being made to God [a]intensely by the church.”(Acts 12:5;12 NASB)
Intercession By Paul
“ Now I urge you, brothers and sisters, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your prayers to God for me…”(Romans 15:30-31 NASB)
“while they also, by prayer on your behalf, yearn for you because of the surpassing grace of God in you.”(2 Corinthians 9:14 NASB)
“Now we pray to God that you do nothing wrong; not so that we ourselves may appear approved, but that you may do what is right, though we may appear unapproved…” (2 Corinthians 13:7-9 NASB)
“do not cease giving thanks for you, while making mention of you in my prayers…” (Ephesians 1:16 NASB)
“always offering prayer with joy in my every prayer for you all…” (Philippians 1:4 NASB)
“…always striving earnestly for you in his prayers, that you may stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God.”(Colossians 4:12 NASB)
It Is Good To Ask others To Pray for You
Ask others to pray for you. It is Biblical.
“for I know that this will turn out for my deliverance through your prayers and the provision of the Spirit of Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:19 NASB)
“Brethren, pray for us.” (1 Thessalonians 5:25 NASB)
“Pray for us, for we are sure that we have a good conscience, desiring to conduct ourselves honorably in all things.” (Hebrews 13:18 NASB)
Prayers of the Saints / Scriptures About Prayer Warriors
Another way to supercharge your prayer life is to study the prayers of others in Scripture. These prayers were so important they are recorded word for word. Often, after the prayer we read the answer to that prayer. Powerful! I want that type of prayer life.
David’s Prayer
David’s prayers are so deep and beautiful. Here are just a few that move me!
“Then David the king came in and sat before the Lord, and he said, “Who am I, Lord God, and who are the members of my household, that You have brought me this far?” (2 Samuel 7:18-29 NASB)
“Then King David came in and sat before the Lord, and said, “Who am I, Lord God, and what is my house that You have brought me this far? This was a small thing in Your eyes, God; but You have spoken of Your servant’s house for a great while to come, and have viewed me according to the standard of a person of high degree, Lord God…”(1 Chronicles 17:16-27 NASB)
“So David blessed the Lord in the sight of all the assembly; and David said, “Blessed are You, Lord God of Israel our father, forever and ever. Yours, Lord, is the greatness, the power, the glory, the victory, and the majesty, indeed everything that is in the heavens and on the earth; Yours is the dominion, Lord, and You exalt Yourself as head over all.” (1 Chronicles 29:10-19 NASB)
More in the Psalms:~
- Psalm 3
- Psalm 23
- Psalm 25
- Psalm 27
- Psalm 63
Solomon’s Prayer
Solomon’s prayers like David’s are full of great depth and inspiration.
“Then Solomon said, “You have shown great faithfulness to Your servant David my father…
So give Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people, to discern between good and evil. For who is capable of judging this great people of Yours?”(1 Kings 3:6-9 NASB)
Then, God answers Solomon.
“And God said to him, “Because you have asked this thing, and have not asked for yourself a long life, nor have asked riches for yourself…
behold, I have done according to your words. Behold, I have given you a wise and discerning heart, so that there has been no one like you before you, nor shall one like you arise after you… (1 Kings 3:10-14 NASB)
(2 Chronicles 1:8-13 gives us a parallel account of the same prayer.
More Prayers of Solomon
Then Solomon said,
“The Lord has said that He would dwell in the thick darkness.
I have built You a lofty house,
And a place for Your dwelling forever…” (2 Chronicles 6:1-11 NASB)
The Lord answers Solomon.
“Then the Lord appeared to Solomon at night and said to him, “I have heard your prayer and have chosen this place for Myself as a house of sacrifice…” (2 Chronicles 7:12-15 NASB)
The Prayer of Dedication
“…And he said, “Lord, God of Israel, there is no God like You in heaven above or on earth beneath, keeping the covenant and showing faithfulness to Your servants who walk before You with all their heart…” ( 1 Kings 8:22- 54 NASB)
Answer
“And the Lord said to him, “I have heard your prayer and your plea which you have offered before Me; I have consecrated this house which you have built, by putting My name there forever, and My eyes and My heart will be there always.” (1 Kings 9:3 NASB)
(2 Chronicles 6:12 – 40 NASB) gives us a parallel account of the same prayer but goes furthur. The Shekinah Glory of God filled the temple as an answer to that prayer!
‘Now when Solomon had finished praying, fire came down from heaven and consumed the burnt offering and the sacrifices, and the glory of the Lord filled the house.” (2 Chronicles 7:1 NASB)
Elijah’s Prayer
Elijah’s prayer and God’s answer are so amazing!
“Then at the time of the offering of the evening sacrifice, Elijah the prophet approached and said,
“Lord, God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, today let it be known that You are God in Israel and that I am Your servant, and that I have done all these things at Your word.
Answer me, Lord, answer me, so that this people may know that You, Lord, are God, and that You have turned their heart back.”Then the fire of the Lord fell and consumed the burnt offering and the wood, and the stones and the dust; and it licked up the water that was in the trench.” (1 Kings 18:36-38 NASB)
Hezekiah’s Prayer
Hezekiah’s Prayer is different and so worth examining.
“Hezekiah prayed before the Lord and said, “Lord, God of Israel, enthroned above the cherubim, You are the God, You alone, of all the kingdoms of the earth. You have made heaven and earth.
Incline Your ear, Lord, and hear; open Your eyes, Lord, and see; and listen to the words of Sennacherib, which he has sent to taunt the living God…” (2 Kings 19:15-19 NASB)
Interestingly, God answer’s through Isaiah. Sometimes God answers through others!
“Then Isaiah the son of Amoz sent word to Hezekiah, saying, “This is what the Lord, the God of Israel says: ‘Because you have prayed to Me about Sennacherib king of Assyria, I have heard you.’…” (2 Kings 19:20 – 20:2 NASB)
A Parallel Account of Hezekiah’s Prayer
“ But King Hezekiah and Isaiah the prophet, the son of Amoz, prayed about this and called out to heaven for help.
And the Lord sent an angel who destroyed every warrior, commander, and officer in the camp of the king of Assyria.” (2 Chronicles 32:20 NASB)
Another parallel account of this prayer is in (Isaiah 37:15-20 NASB) – (Isaiah 38:5 NASB).
Jehosephat’s Prayer
“…“Lord, God of our fathers, are You not God in the heavens? And are You not ruler over all the kingdoms of the nations? Power and might are in Your hand so that no one can stand against You. Did You not, our God, drive out the inhabitants of this land from Your people Israel, and give it to the descendants of Your friend Abraham forever?”… (2 Chronicles 20:5-12 NASB)
God answers through Jahaziel.
“Then in the midst of the assembly the Spirit of the Lord came upon Jahaziel the son of Zechariah, the son of Benaiah, the son of Jeiel, the son of Mattaniah, the Levite of the sons of Asaph; and he said,
“Listen, all you of Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and King Jehoshaphat: This is what the Lord says to you:”… (2 Chronicles 20:14-17 NASB)
Ezra’s Prayer
Ezra’s Pray of confession is humbling!
“But at the evening offering I stood up from my humiliation, even with my garment and my robe torn, and I bowed down on my knees and spread out my hands to the Lord my God; and I said,
“My God, I am ashamed and humiliated to lift up my face to You, my God, for our wrongful deeds have risen above our heads, and our guilt has grown even to the heavens…” (Ezra 9:5-15 NASB)
The assembly responds with weeping. Oh, Lord, help us all to respond in this way!
“Now while Ezra was praying and making confession, weeping and prostrating himself before the house of God, a very large assembly, men, women, and children, gathered to him from Israel; for the people wept greatly.” (Ezra 10:1 NASB)
Nehemiah’s Prayer
“I said, “Please, Lord God of heaven, the great and awesome God, who keeps the covenant and faithfulness for those who love Him and keep His commandments: let Your ear now be attentive and Your eyes open…” (Nehemiah 1:5-11 NASB)
Answer to the prayer
“Then the king said to me, “What would you request?”
So I prayed to the God of heaven.
Then I said to the king, “If it pleases the king, and if your servant has found favor before you, I request that you send me to Judah, to the city of my fathers’ tombs, that I may rebuild it.”
Then the king said to me, with the queen sitting beside him, “How long will your journey be, and when will you return?”
So it pleased the king to send me, and I gave him a definite time.” (Nehemiah 2:4-6 NASB)
Isaiah’s prayer
“Oh, that You would tear open the heavens and come down,
That the mountains would quake at Your presence—
As fire kindles brushwood, as fire causes water to boil—
To make Your name known to Your adversaries,That the nations may tremble at Your presence!
When You did awesome things which we did not expect,
You came down, the mountains quaked at Your presence.” (Isaiah 64 NASB)
Jeremiah’s Prayer
There are sooo many prayers in the books of Isaiah and Jeremiah.
“Righteous are You, Lord, when I plead my case with You;
Nevertheless I would discuss matters of justice with You:
Why has the way of the wicked prospered?
Why are all those who deal in treachery at ease?…” (Jeremiah 12 NASB) &
“You know, Lord;
Remember me, take notice of me,
And take vengeance for me on my persecutors.
Do not, in view of Your patience, take me away;
Know that for Your sake I endure reproach…” (Jeremiah 15:15-18 NASB)
“I prayed to the Lord, saying, ‘Oh, Lord God! Behold, You Yourself have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and by Your outstretched arm! Nothing is too difficult for You…” (Jeremiah 32:16-25 NASB)
Answered in Jeremiah 32:26-44 NASB.
“Then the word of the Lord came to Jeremiah, saying, “Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh; is anything too difficult for Me?” (Jeremiah 32:26-44 NASB)
“Remember, Lord, what has come upon us;
Look, and see our disgrace!…” (Lamentations 5 NASB)
Daniel’s Prayer
“I prayed to the Lord my God and confessed, and said, “Oh, Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps His covenant and faithfulness for those who love Him and keep His commandments…” (Daniel 9:4-19 NASB)
Then the LORD answers directly!
“While I was still speaking and praying, and confessing my sin and the sin of my people Israel, and presenting my plea before the Lord my God in behalf of the holy mountain of my God,
while I was still speaking in prayer, the man Gabriel, whom I had seen in the vision previously, came to me in my extreme weariness about the time of the evening offering…” (Daniel 9:20-23 NASB)
Jonah’s Prayer
“While I was fainting away,
I remembered the Lord,
And my prayer came to You,
Into Your holy temple.” (Jonah 2:7 NASB)
God’s answer came in verse 10… Can you tell I am blown away when God answers so directly?!?!?
“Then the Lord commanded the fish, and it vomited Jonah up onto the dry land.” (Jonah 2:10 NASB)
Habakkuk’s Prayer
“A prayer of Habakkuk the prophet, according to Shigionoth.
Lord, I have heard the report about You, and I was afraid.
Lord, revive Your work in the midst of the years,
In the midst of the years make it known.
In anger remember mercy.God comes from Teman,
And the Holy One from Mount Paran. Selah
His splendor covers the heavens,
And the earth is full of His praise…” (Habakkuk 3 NASB)
Jesus’ Prayer
“Jesus spoke these things; and raising His eyes to heaven, He said,
“Father, the hour has come; glorify Your Son, so that the Son may glorify You, just as You gave Him authority over all mankind, so that to all whom You have given Him, He may give eternal life.
And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent. I glorified You on the earth by accomplishing the work which You have given Me to do.
And now You, Father, glorify Me together with Yourself, with the glory which I had with You before the world existed.” (John 17 NASB)
Pray, then in this way:
‘Our Father, who is in heaven,
Hallowed be Your name.
Your kingdom come.
Your will be done,
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from evil.’” (Matthew 6:9-13 NASB)
Paul’s Prayer ~
Paul’s prayers are ones that I love to go back through and pray over and over again so I will separate them out.
Ephesians Prayer
“For this reason I too… do not cease giving thanks for you, while making mention of you in my prayers; that the God… may give to you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him.
I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe.
These are in accordance with the working of the strength of His might.” (Ephesians 1:15-19 NASB)
Philippians Prayer
“For God is my witness, how I long for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus.
And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in real knowledge and all discernment,
so that you may approve the things that are excellent, in order to be sincere and blameless until the day of Christ;
having been filled with the fruit of righteousness which comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.” (Philippians 1:9-11 NASB)
Colossians Prayer
“For this reason also, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding,
so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects,
bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God;
strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in Light. (Colossians 1:8-12 NASB)
Thessalonians Prayer
“when He comes to be glorified in His saints on that day, and to be marveled at among all who have believed—for our testimony to you was believed.
To this end also we pray for you always, that our God will count you worthy of your calling,
and fulfill every desire for goodness and the work of faith with power,
so that the name of our Lord Jesus will be glorified in you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (2 Thessalonians 1:10-12 NASB)
Scriptures on Prayer I Need to Research
Lastly, there are some Scripture verses about prayer that I don’t understand at all. Chalk that up to God being mysterious and me not being a scholar. However, they are in there so I am including them. And I plan to dig deeper into them and come back to this section.***
“The Lord is near to all who call on Him,
To all who call on Him in truth.
He will fulfill the desire of those who fear Him;
He will also hear their cry for help and save them.” (Psalm 145:18-19 NASB)
“We know that God does not listen to sinners; but if someone is God-fearing and does His will, He listens to him.” (John 9:31 NASB) **** I really can’t explain
“Every man who has something on his head while praying or prophesying disgraces his head. But every woman who has her head uncovered while praying or prophesying disgraces her head, for it is one and the same as the woman whose head is shaved.” (1 Corinthians 11:4-5; 13 NASB) – Head coverings and prayer -Research more on this***
Over 200 Scripture About Prayer To Grow Your Faith
Well, now, we have seen well over 200 Scripture about prayer (nearly 300 at this point). Do you feel your faith growing?
Want to grow even deeper in faith, better developing your prayer life? Come join us in the Bible study About prayer.
Or, just download the Prayer Bible reading plans below. They should take you about a year to dig through. My prayer is that you come out the other side – next year – more in love with God than you are today!
in HIS love,
Tiffany of Hope Joy in Christ inspires Christian Women to grow in faith, live out Biblical Marriage Principles and raise Godly Children. Join the Wives Only Facebook Group here or keep up with her through Pinterest.
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