“Brothers, my heart’s desire and prayer to God concerning them is for their salvation!” (Romans 10:1).
After Paul’s conversion, he sought out his fellow Jews to proclaim the good news of Jesus. Paul realized that knowing Christ and being found in Jesus was more valuable than anything else. There were those who believed in Jesus and started following him, however, many more rejected the truth that Paul preached. Even in Israel’s misguided zeal for God, Paul wanted to see them saved, and he prayed to that end.
Is my desire and prayer for my lost family and friends to be saved? My immediate response is a resounding, “Yes!” On a daily basis I bring before the Lord a number of individuals for salvation, beginning with my own children. But wait! Upon further reflection, I recall two childhood friends for whom I prayed for years, but somehow have failed to pray for them recently. “Lord, forgive my negligence.”
How long shall we pray for the lost? We pray until they are rescued from sin’s deathly grip. How shall we pray for them after they are rescued? We pray for them to pursue holiness, to grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ, and to follow the leadership of the Holy Spirit.
What is your heart’s desire? For whom are you praying to be saved?
PRAYER PROMPT: Father, make it our heart’s desire to be burdened for the lost people around us. Amen.
Kevin Carrothers serves as pastor of Rochester FBC and IBSA President.
Pastors, join the IBSA Pastors’ Prayer Room on Facebook. E-mail oweaver7307@gmail.com.