Bible Verses to Pray for a Friend
One of the most loving things you can do for someone is to pray for them — and one of the most powerful. But we often don't know what to ask. These bible verses to pray for a friend give language to your love, turning "I'm thinking of you" into "I'm bringing you before God."
Scripture is full of prayers people prayed for one another, and they make wonderful templates for our own.
Praying for their whole flourishing
Paul's prayers for his friends are a rich model. He asks that they be "filled with the knowledge of his will" and strengthened "with all power" (Colossians 1:9-11). And a beautiful blessing you can pray over anyone: "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him" (Romans 15:13). These lift your friend's whole life — not just their problems — before God.
Praying for a friend in pain
When a friend is hurting, other verses guide you. Pray God's comfort over them — the God "who comforts us in all our troubles" (2 Corinthians 1:3-4) — and his nearness, since "the LORD is close to the brokenhearted." If your friend is unwell, these verses for healing the sick help; if anxious, these verses for anxiety.
How to pray for your friend
Pray for them by name, out loud or in your heart. Bring their specific situation to God, and pray Scripture over them by inserting their name into these verses. Ask not only for their circumstances to change but for God to draw near, give them strength and peace, and reveal his love to them. And consider telling them you're praying — few things encourage a struggling person more than knowing they're being carried to God by someone who loves them. To intercede is to do real good in the unseen places of a friend's life.
Frequently asked questions
What are good Bible verses to pray for a friend?
Colossians 1:9-11, Romans 15:13, and 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 are wonderful models — praying for a friend's wisdom, strength, hope, joy, peace, and comfort.
How do I pray for a friend who is struggling?
Pray for them by name, bring their specific situation to God, and pray Scripture over them — asking not only for change but for God's nearness, comfort, and strength.
Should I tell my friend I'm praying for them?
Often, yes. Knowing they're being carried to God by someone who loves them is a deep encouragement to a struggling person, and it strengthens the friendship.
Written by Hannaniah, an ordained minister and seminary professor based in California. For more, see Colossians 1 on Bible Gateway or Bible Hub.
