Question: When someone is sick, how do I pray for them?
Answer: Pray with faith. Pray with trust. Pray for more than the sickness. Pray for God’s will and God’s grace.
Praying for the sick is one of the most compassionate and powerful ways to show God’s love. When we approach this prayer, we are not just offering words but standing in faith, seeking God’s intervention, and offering comfort to those who need it. Let’s explore how to pray for the sick, grounded in scripture, with clear action steps.
1. Begin with a Heart of Compassion.
The first step in praying for the sick is to approach the prayer with genuine compassion and empathy. Jesus was often “moved with compassion” when He healed (Matthew 14:14). We want to show that same compassionate spirit when praying for those in need.
Scripture:
“When he went ashore he saw a great crowd, and he had compassion on them and healed their sick.” (Matthew 14:14)
Action Step:
2. Pray in Faith, Believing in God’s Power to Heal.
Faith is essential when we pray for healing. We are not just hoping; we are believing in the power of God. James 5:15 tells us that “the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well.” Faith is not simply the belief that God can heal but a confidence that He is able and that we trust His will.
Scripture:
“And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up.” (James 5:15)
“And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.” (Matthew 21:22)
Action Step:
3. Pray with Authority, Using the Name of Jesus.
Scripture shows us the authority believers have in Jesus’ name. Jesus encouraged His disciples to ask in His name, which demonstrates our reliance on His power and not our own.
Scripture:
“In my name they will cast out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up serpents with their hands, and if they drink any deadly poison, it will not hurt them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover.” (Mark 16:17-18)
“And whatever you ask in my name, that will I do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son.” (John 14:13)
Action Step:
4. Ask for God’s Will to Be Done.
While we are praying for healing, it’s essential to remember that God’s will is always best. Even Jesus prayed, “Your will be done,” teaching us to submit to God’s wisdom and timing.
Scripture:
“Not my will, but yours be done.” (Luke 22:42)
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11)
Action Step:
5. Pray for Comfort, Peace, and Strength.
Healing can come in various ways, and sometimes it may not be immediate or physical. Asking God to bring comfort, peace, and strength to the person you are praying for is also essential, especially if the journey toward healing is difficult or lengthy.
Scripture:
“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” (Psalm 34:18)
“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)
Action Step:
6. Pray for Wisdom for Medical Professionals.
God often works through doctors, nurses, and caretakers. Asking for wisdom and guidance for these professionals acknowledges that God uses a variety of means to bring healing.
Scripture:
“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” (James 1:5)
Action Step:
7. End with Thanksgiving and Trust.
Gratitude is a powerful expression of faith and trust. After praying, thank God for hearing your prayer and for the work He is doing, whether seen or unseen.
Scripture:
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
“I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.” (Psalm 9:1)
Action Step:
Here is an example:
“Heavenly Father, I come before You with a heart full of compassion for [name]. You see their suffering, and I ask You to bring Your healing power into their life. Lord, I believe in Your power to heal, and I ask in Jesus’ name for Your touch upon them. Please let Your will be done in their life, and give them comfort, strength, and peace as they walk through this season. Guide the hands of the doctors and caregivers, and let Your presence surround them. I thank You, Lord, trusting in Your goodness and faithfulness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
Praying for the sick is a beautiful expression of faith and love. As you pray, remember that God hears every word and that He cares deeply. Whether healing comes immediately, over time, or even in ways we might not expect, our prayers make a difference. Let’s continue to lift the sick before the Lord, standing in faith and trusting in His perfect plan.
