How to Tell Someone You’re Praying for Them

Praying for others is one of our mandates as true followers of Jesus Christ. We follow the footsteps of Jesus, who interceded for people when He was on the earth and continues to intercede for us on the throne of grace (see Romans 8:34 and Hebrews 4:15). When you know that someone is praying for you, especially when you need it most, it is one of the most comforting things you can hear from a friend. We know that prayers are powerful, especially when two or more are gathered in the name of Jesus, because His presence is there in their midst, listening to people’s requests. 

How do you tell someone you are praying for them? When someone you know is going through something challenging, you can pray to God for that person and wait for His instructions. Sometimes, the Lord will show you things you need to do to intercede for that person, which is not for you to tell others but secretly go into warfare, intercessions, and prayers before the Lord. After you have prayed, you can reach out to that person and tell them that you are praying for them. It can be as simple as this:

I’m so sorry for what you are going through right now. I just want you to know that I am praying for you. You are not alone in this battle. I am praying with you. 

If the situation is about a celebration, such as a pregnancy or some other good news, you can also pray for the person and tell her in this manner:

Congratulations in advance! The Lord is so good in your life. I just want you to know that I am continuously praying for you; may You have a safe pregnancy and a healthy baby.

As you allow the Holy Spirit to lead you into praying for others and telling them that you’re praying for them, it can have a huge impact on the person for whom you are praying. It is always best to communicate and reach out to them, as the Lord leads you, to tell them that you are praying for them.

Should I tell someone I’ve been praying for them?

As mentioned earlier, that decision may depend on the Lord’s instructions. When it comes to spiritual activities, such as praying for others and interceding on their behalf, it is best to be led by the Holy Spirit at all times and wait for His instructions. There are instances where you don’t have to tell someone that you are praying for them, as it may offend their beliefs or they may push you away. In cases where you have sensitive friends or friends who are triggered by spirituality, you can be Christlike to them by telling them this:

I’m sorry you are going through this. Know that I am here whenever you need help or a listening ear. I am with you on this journey. You are not alone.

You don’t have to specifically mention the word “praying” for them, if that might cause them to stay away from you or feel uncomfortable. Just shine the light of Christ on them, be loving, and continuously pray for the salvation of their soul.

However, there are also instances where the Holy Spirit will lead you to approach the person and tell them that you are praying for them. God knows the perfect timing. He knows when a soul is ready to be harvested for the Kingdom or if it is not yet ripe. It is important that you allow the Holy Spirit to instruct you in all the things you do as a child of God and lead you in all your ways. 

May the Lord bless you as you continuously pray for others. You are a powerful world changer, and your prayers are effective and powerful in Christ Jesus. Keep shining the light of Christ into the world.