“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.” – Ephesians 6:18
Bible Verses About Praying For Missionaries
God’s Calling on Missionaries
As we think about praying for missionaries, we recognize that each one is often following God’s calling in their lives. They willingly step out of their comfort zones to take the Gospel to places that need it most. The determination to share God’s love can be very challenging. Our prayers for them are essential as they face various obstacles along the way. God has called them for a purpose, and through our prayers, we can support and encourage them. Each time we pray, we are reinforcing their mission with spiritual strength. Our prayers can uplift them, providing the courage and faith they need to keep going in different situations.
Isaiah 6:8
“Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!’” – Isaiah 6:8
Matthew 9:37-38
“Then he said to his disciples, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.’” – Matthew 9:37-38
Acts 13:2
“While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’” – Acts 13:2
1 Corinthians 9:16
“For when I preach the gospel, I cannot boast, since I am compelled to preach. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!” – 1 Corinthians 9:16
Romans 10:14
“How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?” – Romans 10:14
The Power of Prayer For Missionaries
Prayer is one of the most powerful tools we have as believers, especially when we pray for missionaries. Through prayer, we invite God into every situation they face. Our prayers help break through spiritual barriers and open doors for the Gospel message to spread. Praying for missionaries not only helps them but also allows us to connect with them spiritually. It’s an act that showcases our unity in Christ and our commitment to fulfilling the Great Commission. Let’s remain diligent in praying regularly for our missionaries, asking God to empower them and create opportunities for sharing His love.
Philippians 4:6-7
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:6-7
James 5:16
“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” – James 5:16
1 Thessalonians 5:17
“Pray continually.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:17
Colossians 4:2
“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” – Colossians 4:2
1 John 5:14
“This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.” – 1 John 5:14
Strength and Protection for Missionaries
Missionaries face various challenges while spreading the word of God. These challenges can come in the form of opposition, physical dangers, or emotional struggles. Our prayers focus on asking God to strengthen and protect them in their mission work. When we pray for their safety and well-being, we are standing in the gap for them and asking for divine intervention. We can trust that God hears our prayers and will send His angels to guard them. Together, as we pray, we can help create a shield of prayer that surrounds them, empowering their work and keeping them safe.
Psalms 91:11-12
“For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.” – Psalms 91:11-12
Ephesians 6:10
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.” – Ephesians 6:10
2 Thessalonians 3:3
“But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.” – 2 Thessalonians 3:3
Psalms 121:7-8
“The Lord will keep you from all harm — he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” – Psalms 121:7-8
Proverbs 18:10
“The name of the Lord is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” – Proverbs 18:10
Wisdom and Guidance for Missionaries
One of the most important things we can pray for missionaries is wisdom and guidance. They often face complex situations and must make decisions that can impact many lives. By praying for God to give them discernment, we are supporting them in a profound way. Our prayers invite God’s wisdom, which leads their hearts and minds in the right direction. Let’s commit to praying that they continuously seek God’s guidance in every aspect of their mission, for we trust that God will provide the wisdom they need to carry out His work effectively.
James 1:5
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” – James 1:5
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
Psalm 32:8
“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.” – Psalm 32:8
Isaiah 30:21
“Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.’” – Isaiah 30:21
Proverbs 16:9
“In their hearts, humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” – Proverbs 16:9
Encouragement for Missionaries
Being a missionary can be lonely and sometimes discouraging, especially when the results of their hard work are not immediately visible. It is vital for us to pray for their encouragement. Our prayers can bring a sense of hope and strength that can sustain them through tough days. By letting them know they are held in our thoughts and prayers, we can uplift their spirits and remind them of God’s promises. Each time we pray for them to find joy and encouragement in their mission, we are giving them the strength to keep moving forward.
2 Corinthians 1:24
“Not that we lord it over your faith, but we work with you for your joy, because it is by faith you stand firm.” – 2 Corinthians 1:24
Isaiah 41:10
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10
Hebrews 10:24-25
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” – Hebrews 10:24-25
Philippians 1:3-5
“I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.” – Philippians 1:3-5
Romans 15:5-6
“May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” – Romans 15:5-6
Financial Support for Missionaries
Missionaries are often financially dependent on the generosity of others for their work. It is essential to pray for their financial support, as they may face significant challenges in funding their efforts. Our prayers for their resources can help remove barriers and allow them to focus on their ministry. When financial struggles arise, we want them to remain strong in their faith and trust God to provide. Let’s support our missionaries by praying about their financial needs and trusting that God will supply all their needs according to His riches.
Philippians 4:19
“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:19
2 Corinthians 9:8
“And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” – 2 Corinthians 9:8
Malachi 3:10
“Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.” – Malachi 3:10
Acts 4:34-35
“There were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned land or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales and put it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to anyone who had need.” – Acts 4:34-35
Proverbs 11:25
“A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” – Proverbs 11:25
Final Thoughts
When we pray for missionaries, we are joining them in their mission to spread the Gospel. Our tasks are to support them through prayer, asking for God’s protection, wisdom, encouragement, and guidance. By seeking God’s help, we contribute to their strength and effectiveness. We can together lift them up in spirit, helping them to remain steadfast in their calling. Our prayers can strengthen their faith and keep them focused on the purpose that God has for them.
As we reflect on the vital role prayer plays in the lives of missionaries, let’s remember to dedicate ourselves to praying regularly for their needs. Our connection with them through prayer is powerful, and God’s provision is abundant. We are not only supporting them but also experiencing the joy of partnering with God in fulfilling His Great Commission.
For those looking to deepen their understanding of prayer, consider reading more about Philippians 4:6-8 and explore Philippians 1:3-6. May we continue to lift our missionaries in prayer, trusting that God will guide them every step of the way.