Day 12: Praying for the Lost: Burden for Souls

Focus Area - REACH OUT
Stretching Toward Others

Scriptures: Romans 10:1-4; 1 Timothy 2:1-4

Reflection: God desires that “all” be saved and come to the knowledge of truth. Therefore, our desires should be that of Christ’s and become Fishers of Men.

Expanded Focus:
I will never forget that time, as a babe in Christ and freshly out of an abusive marriage, I began to pray for my ex-husband. My prayers had nothing to do with his salvation; instead, they consisted of the bitterness that I had against him. But as I grew in the knowledge of Christ, I realized that my ex could not be convicted in his heart of his abusive ways without knowing Christ. Therefore, I shifted the  bitterness I was holding and turned it into forgiveness, and a burning desire in my heart for him to be saved (Romans 10:1), which became the focus of my prayers for him. I also realized, prior to my salvation, I was a sinner in need of a savior as he was (Romans 3:23). I cannot confirm if my ex-husband received salvation based on “his decision” to believe in Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection, but what I can say is God answers prayers that are prayed according to His Word (John 14:14). God desires that no one should perish (John 3:16).

I also have that same desire and burning in my heart for the lost souls in my family and friends' circle. I pray for God to release them from their spiritual blindness (2 Corinthians 4:4), that they get right with God (Romans 10:3). My prayer is that they realize self-righteousness or simply being a good person won’t make them right with God. It is the righteousness of God through faith in Christ that one receives salvation (Romans 10:4). My prayer is that God open their eyes and hearts so they can repent of their sins, believe in Jesus Christ, and confess Jesus Christ as their Lord (Romans 10:9-10).

We all have people in our lives who feel unreachable, whether they are “enemies” or loved ones. Spiritual maturity calls us to look past hurt and intercede for their souls. When we shift from seeking only our own vindication to praying for the salvation of others, we reflect the heart of the Great Commission. While we pray for others, we remember the grace that once found us in our darkest moments.

During this fasting season, choose one person who has hurt you or is far from God, and pray for their salvation instead of holding on to resentment. By having a 'Burden for Souls,' you both release bitterness and join in God's redemptive work.

Questions to Consider:

1. Can you recall your own "dry" state before Christ saved you? How does that memory help you have compassion for the lost?
2. Who is the "hardest" person in your life to pray for? Will you commit to praying for their salvation every day this week?
3. Reflect on God’s love and grace, His love is for all, and He rejoices when the lost are found. What can you do better to show you are a “Fisher of Men”?