I compiled this list for several reasons: First, so that leaders of Christ’s church will see the need to intentionally request prayer and not feel ashamed to do so. We are in good company when we do so. Second, so that Christ’s church will see the need to pray for their leaders whether they request it or not. Most of us know we need it, but sometimes we are too overwhelmed to stop and ask for it. Third, so that Christ’s kingdom can advance with greater power and effectiveness in our cities as we all take this example of Paul’s to heart. May we all increasingly be a part of this “house of prayer” that Jesus has called us to!
Romans 15:30-32 - - “Now I urge you, brethren, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your prayers to God for me, that I may be rescued from those who are disobedient in Judea, and that my service for Jerusalem may prove acceptable to the saints; so that I may come to you in joy by the will of God and find refreshing rest in your company.”
2 Corinthians 1:10-11 - - “who delivered us from so great a peril of death, and will deliver us, He on whom we have set our hope. And He will yet deliver us, you also joining in helping us through your prayers, so that thanks may be given by many persons on our behalf for the favor bestowed on us through the prayers of many.”
Ephesians 6:19-20 - - “and pray on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in the opening of my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in proclaiming it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.
Philippians 1:19-20 - - “for I know that this will turn out for my deliverance through your prayers and the provision and the provision of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, according to my earnest expectation and hope, that I will not be put to shame in anything, but that with all boldness, Christ will even now, as always, be exalted in my body, whether by life or death.”
Colossians 4:2-4 - - “Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving; 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 speak for the mystery of Christ, for which I have also been imprisoned; that I may make it clear in the way I ought to speak.”
1 Thessalonians 5:25 - - “Brethren, pray for us.”
2 Thessalonians 3:1-2 - - “Finally, brethren, pray for us that the word of the Lord will spread rapidly and be glorified, just as it did also with you; and that we will be rescued from perverse and evil men; for not all have faith.”
Colossians 4:18 “I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. Remember my imprisonment. Grace be with you.”