21 Spiritual Things to Pray for Other Christians

I can easily think of concrete, physical things to pray for the people in my life. Things like physical healing, a needed job, and help in school. But how often do we pray for spiritual things?

We Christians often spend far more time praying for issues that are fleeting and temporary and far less time praying about things that are eternal. Why is that?

I believe one of the biggest reasons is that we simply don’t know how to pray this way or what to pray for. At least that’s been my top reason. So, a couple of years ago I scoured Scripture looking for ways I could pray for others that would have eternal, lasting impact.

The list below is just a sampling from Scripture, but it’s a great start! I’ve also provided a pdf version (21 Spiritual Things to Pray for Other Christians )you can print and keep in your Bible or journal. I would also love to hear what spiritual things you pray for others.

1. Thank God for them – Romans 1:8, 1 Corinthians 1:4, Philippians 1:3
2. God’s mercy – 1 Timothy 1:2
3. Protection from evil people – Romans 15:31, 2 Thessalonians 3:2
4. Protection from Satan – John 17:5, 2 Thessalonians 3:3
5. Opportunity to witness – Colossians 4:3
6. Courage in witnessing – Ephesians 6:19-20
7. Right words and clarity in witnessing – Ephesians 6:19; Colossians 4:4
8. Spiritual strength/growth – 2 Corinthians 13:7-9, Colossians 1:11, 2 Thessalonians 2:17
9. Increased love & unity – John 17:21, Philippians 1:9, 1 Thessalonians 3:12
10. Better understanding of God’s love – Ephesians 3:17-19, 2 Thessalonians 3:5
11. Joy, peace, comfort, and encouragement – Colossians 1:11, 2 Thessalonians 1:2; 2:16-17
12. To know God better – Colossians 1:10, Ephesians 1:17
13. Increased spiritual wisdom & discernment – Ephesians 1:17, Philippians 1:9-10, Colossians 1:9
14. Knowledge and understanding of God’s will for their life – Colossians 1:9
15. To be holy, pure, and blameless – John 17:17, Philippians 1:10, 1 Thessalonians 5:23
16. To live a life that pleases God and honors Him – Colossians 1:10
17. To obediently follow God’s will – Colossians 4:12
18. To grow in righteousness and Christ-like character – Philippians 1:11
19. Live a life of good works that produces spiritual fruit – Colossians 1:10
20. Full understanding of their eternal inheritance – Ephesians 1:18
21. Stand firm in God’s truth – Ephesians 4:15

Let’s share! What Scriptures or spiritual prayers do you lift up for others?