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“What About Unspoken Prayer Request?”
Categories: Bulletin Articles, Clay Gentry
Question: I would love to hear thoughts on “private” or “unspoken” prayer requests. I want an open mind, but I don't see how to pray for something someone won’t share. This seems to be a trend of late and I'm starting to feel very negative about those requests.
Answer: Thank you for the question. It’s true that vague prayer requests like “unspoken prayer requests” can be frustrating. We naturally want to know what’s going on, understand the situation, and specifically address the needs of those we pray for. However, it’s crucial to remember that everyone has their own reasons for keeping things private. Perhaps they are facing something deeply personal or fear judgment or vulnerability.
Instead of focusing on the lack of details, let’s shift our perspective. The very fact that someone is requesting prayer, in any form, shows a desire for connection and a reliance on God. What if they simply said, “Please pray for me.” Wouldn't we readily offer our prayers without hesitation? I think so because the core request remains the same regardless of the wording.
When encountering these “unspoken” requests, consider responding with empathy and grace. Offer your prayers and let the person know you're there to listen if they ever wish to talk.
Most importantly, let’s pray. Even without knowing the specifics, we can still powerfully intercede for others. Here’s a prayer you might find helpful for these situations:
“Oh God Who knows all, Who sees all, hear my prayer on behalf of [person’s name]. Though I don’t know [person’s name] specific prayer request You do. For You have said that You search the hearts of men. You know all our thoughts from afar. You know us from our beginning to our end. You are acquainted with all our ways. Even before a word is on our tongue You know it. Nothing is hidden from your eyes. Father, graciously attend to [person’s name] needs.
Though I don’t know the words to pray for [person’s name], Your Spirit knows. Thank You, Father, for the gift of Your Spirit that intercedes for me and [person’s name] with groanings too deep for words or knowledge of the situation.
Though I don’t know what’s going on in [person’s name] life, I will not think negatively of her request but will consider [person’s name] need for prayer more significant than my own. For this is the mind of Christ, who though He was in the form of God, did not count equality with God as a thing to be held on to but made Himself nothing, taking the form of a servant to save [person’s name] and me by dying on the cross for our sins. Father, give me a heart like Jesus to serve [person’s name] in prayer. Amen.”
