In one of the most vivid passages of the Old Testament, we see God speaking with Abraham about the wicked towns of Sodom and Gomorrah. Although Abraham’s nephew, Lot, lives there with his family, Abraham calls on God to act justly, almost like he is bargaining. with God. From Abraham, we have much to learn about pleading with God in prayer on behalf of the lost.

Put It into Practice: In praying this week. specifically name the individuals you are praying for. Praise God and ask Him to open their hearts to His truth, using Paul’s words in Acts 26:18.

 

Day 1      Genesis 18:17-33
Reflect: Why does God want to reveal His plans to Abraham? Why is judgment coming on Sodom and Gomorrah? To what does Abraham appeal in asking God to have mercy on these cities?

Apply:    Do you think Abraham had to convince God to be merciful? Why/why not? When have you questioned God’s actions and why? Do you include intercession for the lost in your daily prayers?

Pray:      Father, I plead for those who are dead in their sins or have lost their way. I will keep asking and trusting, that by Your grace and mercy, they will be drawn to You.

 

Day 2   Matthew 9:35-38
Reflect: What do you think Jesus saw in the crowds that made Him so compassionate? What does Jesus want the disciples to know about sharing the good news of the kingdom of God?

Apply: Do you see evangelism as more an individual task or a communal effort? Why? What kinds of words do you think Jesus wants us to include in our prayers for the lost? Pray using these words.

Pray: Lord, individually and in teams, send us out to those who are ready to be brought into the Kingdom. With Holy Spirit power, help us show Your love by bringing Your solutions for their needs.

 

Day 3    1 Timothy 2:1-4
Reflect: What specific things does Paul tell Timothy to do for everyone? How are they distinct? What is Paul’s main point in this passage? What pleases God?

Apply:   For whom do you spend the most time praying? What percentage of time do you think you pray for others compared to yourself? How do you pray for those in authority? How might you pray?

Pray:    Jesus, help me to intercede for all nations, alert to the needs of people around the world, as well as my own. Thank You, that You are a God who hears and answers prayer.

 

Day 4     Luke 18:1-7
Reflect: In what ways is God different than the unjust judge? In what ways are God’s chosen ones
different than the persistent widow? What has caused you to give up praying?

Apply: When and why is it okay to wear out God in prayer? How have you seen persistent prayer fuel a wavering faith? How do faith and prayer stand and fall together?

Pray: Lord, teach me to be persistent in prayer and resilient in faith, seeking Your face and longing
to hear Your voice.

 

Day 5      1 John 5:13-15
Reflect: What does it mean to “know” that you have eternal life? How does the phrase “if we ask anything according to His will” impact our understanding of prayer? How do we know God’s will?

Apply:   How does the assurance of eternal life impact our prayers for ourselves and others? How have this week’s texts impacted your desire to pray for those who do not yet have this assurance?

Pray:     Father, when doubts attack faith, firmly anchor our hearts in assurance of the profound gift of salvation. Whisper Your truth — “You are forgiven, saved by God’s grace and mercy alone.”