Have you ever wondered if your prayers actually do anything - or if God already has everything decided anyway? Today, we’re looking at what Scripture really says about intercessory prayer, which is praying on behalf of others. We’ll explore why God invites us to ask, how prayer fits with God’s will, and why praying for others is not pointless, but deeply meaningful and powerful as we pray boldly to a willing Father.

1 Timothy 2:1-6

1 First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, 2 for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. 3 This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave Himself as a ransom for all, which is the testimony given at the proper time.

For Adult Homes & Groups

1. What is the silliest or most memorable thing you remember praying for?

2. What doubts or hesitations do you have when it comes to praying for others?

3. What comfort do you find in knowing that Jesus and the Holy Spirit intercede for us when we don’t know how to pray?

4. Who is one person or what is one situation God may be inviting you to bring before Him in intercessory prayer regularly?

For Families with Kids

1. Read 1 Timothy 2:1-6 as a family. 

2. Paul says we should pray for everyone, even kings and leaders! Who are some people we can pray for today?

3. What does God want for all people?

4. Who is the only one who can connect us to God? 

5. Activity: Write names of people on strips of paper and link them to make a paper chain, praying for each person as you add a link.