What other specific things are we to ask for according to Scripture?
Scripture provides specific guidance on what believers are to ask for in prayer. Below is a comprehensive list, with corresponding verses:
1. Wisdom and Understanding
We are encouraged to ask for wisdom to navigate life and understand God’s will.
- James 1:5 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
- Colossians 1:9 – “We have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of His will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding.”
2. Forgiveness of Sins
Confession and asking for forgiveness restore our relationship with God.
- 1 John 1:9 – “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
- Psalm 51:1-2 – “Have mercy on me, O God, according to Your unfailing love; according to Your great compassion blot out my transgressions.”
3. Daily Needs and Provision
We are to ask God for our daily sustenance and material needs.
- Matthew 6:11 – “Give us today our daily bread.”
- Philippians 4:19 – “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus.”
4. Deliverance from Evil and Temptation
Believers are encouraged to ask for protection and strength against sin and spiritual attack.
- Matthew 6:13 – “And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.”
- Psalm 141:4 – “Do not let my heart be drawn to what is evil.”
5. Strength and Endurance
We can ask for spiritual strength to persevere through trials and hardships.
- Isaiah 40:31 – “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.”
- Ephesians 3:16 – “I pray that out of His glorious riches He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being.”
6. Peace and Rest
God invites us to pray for peace in our hearts and lives.
- Philippians 4:6-7 – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
- Matthew 11:28-29 – “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
7. Boldness and Courage to Share the Gospel
We are to pray for boldness in proclaiming God’s Word.
- Acts 4:29 – “Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable Your servants to speak Your word with great boldness.”
- Ephesians 6:19-20 – “Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel.”
8. Healing and Restoration
Believers are instructed to pray for physical, emotional, and spiritual healing.
- James 5:14-15 – “Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord.”
- Psalm 103:2-3 – “Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all His benefits—who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases.”
9. Unity and Love Among Believers
We are to pray for unity in the body of Christ and love among one another.
- John 17:20-21 – “I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one.”
- Philippians 1:9 – “And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight.”
10. The Return of Christ and God’s Kingdom
Believers are encouraged to pray for Christ’s return and the fulfillment of His kingdom.
- Matthew 6:10 – “Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”
- Revelation 22:20 – “Come, Lord Jesus.”
11. Guidance and Direction
We are to seek God’s guidance for decisions and life’s path.
- Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
- Psalm 25:4-5 – “Show me Your ways, Lord, teach me Your paths. Guide me in Your truth and teach me.”
12. Spiritual Growth and Holiness
Believers should ask for growth in faith, righteousness, and holiness.
- Colossians 1:10 – “So that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please Him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God.”
- Psalm 139:23-24 – “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.”
These verses demonstrate the vast scope of things we are invited to ask for in prayer, all pointing to a deeper relationship with God and a life lived according to His will.