6 Ways to Pray as You Evangelize

Scripture teaches that as we evangelize, we ought to pray, but what should we pray for? And, what is the relationship of prayer to evangelism?

To answer this question, we must study verses that deal with prayer in an evangelistic context. In so doing, we will discover six prayer topics relating specifically to evangelism. These topics form the acronym L.O.B.S.S.S. — Laborers, Opportunity, Boldness, Success, Safety, and Salvation.

Pray for Laborers

Then He said to them, “The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few; therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest” (Luke 10:2).

Jesus encouraged his disciples to pray for God to send out workers to spread the gospel. We don’t go it alone in evangelism; it’s a team effort.

Pray for Opportunity

Meanwhile praying also for us, that God would open to us a door for the word, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in chains (Col. 4:3).

Paul asked for prayer for an opportunity (“a door”) to share the gospel. As we think of people we know, we need to pray that there will be opportunity to share the gospel with them.

Pray for Boldness

Now, Lord, look on their threats, and grant to Your servants that with all boldness they may speak Your word (Acts 4:29).

When the disciples were afraid, they asked the Lord for boldness. We should do the same. God has a generous supply of boldness and wants us to ask for it.

Pray for the Good Success of the Gospel

Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may run swiftly and be glorified, just as it is with you (2 Thess. 3:1).

Paul encouraged his readers to pray that as he presented the gospel, it would be accompanied by good success and would spread rapidly. Pray that the gospel has success in your community.

Pray for Safety and Deliverance

That we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men; for not all have faith (2 Thess. 3:2).

As we seek to share the gospel, some will oppose us, which can hinder our work or health. Pray that God will grant safety to the laborers and deliverance from harm.

Pray for Salvation

Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth (1 Tim. 2:1–4).

Paul stressed prayer for “all men.” Nobody is excluded. As you talk to people about God, talk to God about men.