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Prayer is one of the most powerful ways we can partner in missions. While not every believer is called to travel across the world or serve on a foreign mission field, every believer is called to pray. Missions is a spiritual battle, and prayer is the weapon that empowers missionaries, opens doors for the gospel, and strengthens the workers in the field. Paul understood the necessity of prayer for the spread of the gospel when he wrote in 2 Thessalonians 3:1-2, “Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you: And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all men have not faith.” Even the greatest missionary of all time, the Apostle Paul, recognized that his ministry could not thrive without the prayers of God’s people.

Missionaries face immense spiritual, emotional, and physical challenges on a daily basis. They often work in areas where Christianity is unwelcome, where opposition is fierce, and where discouragement can easily set in. The enemy does not want the gospel to advance, and Satan will do everything in his power to hinder it. This is why prayer is essential. Colossians 4:3-4 reminds us of the missionary’s need for divine intervention: “Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ… that I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak.” Missionaries need our prayers for open doors, protection from danger, and boldness to proclaim the truth. When we intercede on their behalf, we join them in their work, becoming partners in the Great Commission.

Not only do missionaries need prayer, but so do the lost souls they are trying to reach. Many people around the world have never heard the name of Jesus, and their hearts are hardened by false religions, atheism, or cultural traditions. Only God can soften their hearts and open their eyes to the truth. 2 Corinthians 4:4 speaks of this reality: “In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.” When we pray for missionaries, we must also pray for the lost—asking God to remove spiritual blindness, break down barriers, and prepare hearts to receive the gospel.

This week, commit to praying faithfully for missionaries. Make a list of specific missionaries or mission fields that your church supports, and pray for them by name. Ask God to bless their work, to strengthen them in their calling, and to give them courage as they share Christ. Pray for divine appointments, for protection from harm, and for open doors in places where the gospel has never been preached. Your prayers make a real and eternal difference in the harvest of souls. Missions is not just about those who go—it is also about those who stay behind and support the work through fervent, faithful prayer. Will you stand in the gap today?