Day 6 - 40 Days of Focus:Evangelism

Can I Pray for You?

Everybody needs help with something. Many years ago a man came to speak at the Dallas Seminary’s chapel while I was a student there. He was invited to share because God had revealed to him a great truth about evangelism. People in America are often offended by Christians who try to convince them that they are sinners and need Jesus. However, if you simply ask, “Can I pray for you,” most people will feel loved and will welcome the support. This then opens the door to further spiritual conversations. If you will honestly pray for the requests that people give you then you will be inviting God to answer their prayers and draw them to Himself.

Start by choosing one or two people/families who you can offer to pray for. Next, find a good time to ask them. You may want to have them over for dinner at your home or you may find that the lunch table at work is a good place. Then, simply ask them how you can pray for them. Once you have a prayer request, pray for it daily for at least a week and then make sure to follow up with asking how the issue you prayed for is going. This may lead to new prayer requests. It will likely give you an opportunity to talk about how Jesus has changed you and why you believe (sharing the good news). After a while you might also try asking them if they wouldn’t mind praying for you. If they don’t know how, you can take an opportunity to tell them it all begins with a relationship...