Most believers understand that prayer is an important part of the Christian faith. Prayer is simply having a real and heartfelt conversation with the Father. Prayer is how we come to know Him better, even Jesus who was God in the flesh, prayed to the Father because He wanted that open communication, a close-knit relationship. We, as Christ-followers ought to do the same. If you are new to prayer or just getting back into prayer and would like some tips, feel free to message me or leave a comment and I may write a post on some tips to help build up that all important habit!
Now then, prayer is important, as evidenced in Scripture. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 tells us to pray without ceasing. Colossians 4:2 instructs us to continue in prayer, likewise so does Romans 12:12. And while praying alone is great, the Bible reminds us of how Jesus often went off in the early morning to spend quiet time with the Father, there is also a need for corporate prayer (prayer with a group). This happens most often when we’re in church or in another gathering of believers whether it be at a convention or event or maybe even while out to dinner!
Yet, there are times when you’re praying on something and while you may not want a whole group of people to know about that situation, you do want to lean in and touch and agree with someone else, someone who can also intercede on your behalf. Matthew 18:19 says this:
“Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven.”
Sometimes we need another person to bolster us up in the faith, to help remind us of the promises that the Lord has spoken over us. And this is when we should make use of prayer partners.
What Is A Prayer Partner? What Is It Not?
A prayer partner is another person, of the same sex as you, that you can go to with an issue and pray with them with one accord.
A prayer partner is:
- Someone of your gender
- Someone with the same Biblical foundation as you (we don’t want you unevenly yoked or receiving unwise advice and counsel!)
- Someone you can count on to actually pray for you, not just when you’re on the phone with them but even afterwards.
- Someone who has no ill intentions toward you. The Bible says we have to touch and agree. If they’re not in agreement, you’d be better off praying alone in your prayer closet.
- Someone who can bolster you up and help you grow in your walk with God. And you should be able to do the same for them.
- A prayer partner is NOT someone who prays for you so that you don’t have to pray. Our faith walk is our faith walk. No one can do it for us, so if the only time you talk to the Father is when you’re with your prayer partner, you won’t notice a significant and lasting change in your relationship with Him.
- A prayer partner is NOT someone who belittles you or condemns you for your past mistakes or for not knowing the Bible as well as others. They walk with you in love and offer Biblical advice and friendship, not guilt tripping.
- A prayer partner is NOT a replacement to fellowship with other believers and membership to a church. The Bible tells us to fail not to assemble ourselves together (Hebrews 10:25). We are His sheep and He gives us shepherds in pastors and leaders. That is why we need to be in the church.
- A prayer partner is NOT someone whom you treat like a spiritual dump site, dumping your emotional baggage on them and not caring about whether they have the emotional capacity to deal with it at this time. Nor should you expect your prayer partner to fix your problems for you. We have to go to God.
What Are The Benefits of Having A Prayer Partner?
As I mentioned earlier, sometimes you really need someone to talk to. You may feel as though God isn’t talking to you, or maybe like you can’t hear Him. Perhaps you just need some encouragement in your situation or really want to grow in your prayer life and maybe add some accountability to prayer. (When we pray for others, we grow stronger in our own faith.) Having another person to join in faith with you is truly amazing, it reminds you that thanks to Christ you can come boldly before the throne of grace (Hebrews 4:16). There are numerous benefits to having a prayer partner, but I’ll just list some of the big ones to make it easier for you.
- They can tarry with you in God.
- They can remind you of God’s promise.
- Helps to strengthen your relationship with God, and therefore, your walk.
- They can encourage you. They can also correct you, in love.
- They can impart scripture in your hearing that you can act on in your daily life.
Prayer partners are people who will get to know a lot about you, therefore they can check in on those things that perhaps you have been struggling with for a long time. They can also help remind you of things the Lord has brought you from, which encourages you in the midst of a more recent struggle or trial. A prayer partner can also sometimes see what you need before you do and go to God on your behalf before you even ask.
How Do You Find A Prayer Partner?
Now that you know the importance of a prayer partner and some benefits to having one, maybe it is time you start seeking one out!
The first step to finding a prayer partner is considering what you want in a prayer partner. The second step is going to God. Tell God that you’re seeking a prayer partner and the qualities you hope to find in a prayer partner. Then begin to ask God earnestly and without doubt. When we come to God and make requests, we have to ask and truly want what we are asking Him for. The more doubt in our heart, the less likely we are to receive it.
Next, you have to be patient. God may bring someone to mind that very first time you pray, but He may not. Be patient and begin thanking God for a prayer partner that can help you grow in your relationship with Him, even though you haven’t met that person yet. Keep praying. And don’t always look for someone who is in your church or has a title. Sometimes, the person God lays on your heart may not have a title and they may not be a member of your local church. You don’t know what He has in store for you, but I am sure you don’t want to limit Him. Remember, we serve a great big God!
You can also think of those in your age group that you know that may be currently seeking God. Maybe start off small and before asking them to be your prayer partner, just sit and have a casual chat about faith every now and then. You may realize that your prayer partner is closer than you think.
So, if you do not have a prayer partner, I urge you to find one. Have any thoughts on this subject? Leave a comment down below!
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