How do we “make disciples?” Disciple-making is the intentional process of helping someone follow Jesus through relationships. This process includes several aspects such as teaching content, making consistent contact, and spending time in different contexts together. There are many resources available to help us in our disciple-making efforts. However, I fear that we can get so caught up in following and depending on a certain curriculum or method of discipleship that we forget to pray for those we are seeking to disciple.

If you are seeking to help someone follow Jesus and grow in their walk with God, one of the first things you should do is commit yourself to is praying for them! Here are five simple things to pray; I would encourage you to memorize these and pray them daily!

1. Spiritual Growth and Maturity in Christ

Pray that they would grow in their understanding of the gospel, deepen in their relationship with Christ, and become more like Him in character and conduct (Ephesians 4:13-15).

2. Understanding and Applying Scripture

Ask God to grant them wisdom and insight as they read His Word, helping them to understand and apply His truth as they seek to live out the gospel (Psalm 119:18; James 1:22).

3. Opportunities and Boldness in Ministry

Pray for them to have opportunities to minister to others through prayer, encouragement, and evangelism. Pray for God to grant them courage and clarity as they share the hope of Christ with others (Acts 4:29; Matthew 28:19-20).

4. Dependence on the Holy Spirit

Ask God to help them rely on the Holy Spirit for guidance, strength, and spiritual transformation, recognizing that apart from Him, they can do nothing (John 15:5; Galatians 5:16).

5. Perseverance Through Trials

Ask God to sustain them through whatever trials they may be experiencing. Pray that He will use these challenges to strengthen their faith, refine their character, and mature them in Christ (James 1:2-4; Romans 5:3-5).

6. Those They Will Disciple

Pray that they will become a disciple-maker themselves, and ask God to lead them to others they can help in their walk with Jesus (2 Timothy 2:2).

Can you imagine what someone’s life may look like if they had someone in their corner praying these things for them regularly? Let that “someone in their corner” be you!