Intercessory prayers for family are some of the most heartfelt and powerful prayers we can pray. When we lift up our loved ones to God, we invite Him to work in their lives in ways only He can. Family is a gift from God, but it also comes with its share of challenges. There are moments of joy and laughter, but there are also struggles, misunderstandings, health issues, financial worries, and so much more.
That’s why prayer is so important. It’s our way of standing in the gap for our family, asking God to bring healing, peace, and provision. Personally, I’ve experienced the transformative power of praying for my family, moments when God brought reconciliation, clarity, or protection just when it was most needed.
Whether you’re praying for unity, strength, or healing, these prayers are an anchor during life’s storms. In this article, I’ll share 12 powerful intercessory prayers for family that you can use to pray over your loved ones. So grab a quiet moment, and let’s invite God to take the lead in our family’s story.
What Is Intercessory Prayer?
Intercessory prayer is a fancy way of saying, “I’m praying on someone else’s behalf.” It’s when we go to God not just for our own needs but for the needs of others like our family. Think of it as being a spiritual cheerleader or advocate for your loved ones. We’re saying, “God, I trust You to handle what they’re going through because I can’t fix it myself.”
And let’s be honest, sometimes we want to fix everything for our family, don’t we? I mean, how many of us have tried to micromanage a sibling’s choices, offered unsolicited parenting advice to a cousin, or “accidentally” shared a sermon link with a relative we think needs to repent? (Just me? Okay, moving on.) But the truth is, we’re limited. God, however, isn’t.
The Bible encourages us to pray for one another. In James 5:16, it says, “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” That includes prayers for your mom, your dad, your kids, your siblings and even that one family member who gets on your last nerve during the holidays.
Intercessory prayer isn’t about having all the answers or even knowing the exact right words to say. It’s about bringing your family’s needs before the One who does. Sometimes it’s as simple as saying, “Lord, please help them,” and trusting that God hears you.
So, if you’ve ever felt helpless watching a loved one struggle or wondered how you could support them when words don’t feel like enough, intercessory prayer is your answer. It’s not just a powerful tool; it’s a gift that allows us to partner with God in caring for our family.
How to Pray Intercessory Prayers for Your Family
Praying for your family doesn’t have to be complicated. You don’t need fancy words or hours of uninterrupted time (although that would be nice, wouldn’t it?). Intercessory prayer is all about coming to God with a heart full of love and trust. Let me share some tips to help you get started:
Prepare Your Heart for Prayer
Before you dive in, take a moment to pause and center yourself. Sometimes, our minds are racing with all the things we want to pray about like finances, health, the argument you just had with your sister. But prayer isn’t a to-do list; it’s a conversation with God.
Here’s what I do: I sit quietly for a minute, take a deep breath, and ask God to calm my heart. I remind myself that He already knows my family’s needs better than I do. It’s such a comforting thought, isn’t it?
Use Scripture in Your Prayers
There’s something powerful about praying God’s Word over your family. Scripture isn’t just words on a page; it’s alive and active (Hebrews 4:12). For example, when I’m praying for protection over my kids, I love using Psalm 91:11: “For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.”
If you’re not sure which verses to use, don’t worry. I’ll share a list later in this article. Just know that when you use Scripture, you’re aligning your prayers with God’s promises, and that’s a game-changer.
Be Consistent in Prayer
I know life gets busy. Between work, kids, and everything else, finding time to pray can feel impossible. But consistency matters. Think of it like watering a plant. If you only water it once every two weeks, it’s not going to thrive. The same is true for prayer. You have to show up regularly, even if it’s just for a few minutes each day.
Here’s a funny thing I’ve noticed: The more consistent I am with prayer, the less I feel like I’m carrying everything on my own shoulders. It’s like handing the weight of family concerns over to God and saying, “Here, You handle this. You’re way better at it than I am.”
Intercessory prayer isn’t about getting it all right, it’s about showing up with a willing heart. Whether you’re praying in the car on your way to work, while folding laundry, or during your quiet time with God, it all counts. The beauty of prayer is that God hears us wherever we are.
12 Powerful Intercessory Prayers for Family
1. Intercessory Prayer for Family Unity
Heavenly Father, thank You for placing us together as a family. Sometimes, our differences create tension, but I pray You help us to love one another deeply, even when it’s hard. Teach us to listen with empathy, communicate with grace, and forgive quickly. Let peace rule in our hearts and in our home. May Your love be the foundation of our relationships and Your Spirit guide us toward harmony. Fill our family with joy, laughter, and mutual understanding, and help us to be an example of unity to others. In Jesus’ name, I pray, amen.
2. Intercessory Prayer for Protection Over the Family
Father, You are our refuge and fortress, and I ask for Your protection over my family. Shield us from harm, accidents, and evil intentions. Surround our home with Your angels and safeguard us as we come and go. Protect our minds and hearts from fear and worry, and remind us that You are always with us. Keep us safe from illness and natural disasters, and help us to trust in Your unfailing care. Thank You for being our ultimate protector. In Jesus’ name, amen.
3. Intercessory Prayer for Family Healing and Health
Lord Jesus, I bring before You my family members who are sick or hurting. You are the great healer, and I ask You to touch their bodies and minds with Your healing power. Restore them to health and renew their strength. Comfort those in pain and give them hope and peace during their recovery. For emotional wounds, bring healing to broken hearts and troubled minds. Help us to trust in Your timing and plan, knowing that You are always good. Thank You for being the source of all healing. In Jesus’ name, amen.
4. Intercessory Prayer for Family Financial Stability
Heavenly Father, I lift up our family’s financial situation to You. You are Jehovah Jireh, our provider, and I trust You to meet every need we have. Open doors of opportunity for stable income and guide us to make wise financial decisions. Help us to be good stewards of what You have entrusted to us. Where there is lack, bring provision, and where there is abundance, help us to be generous. Thank You for being faithful and providing for us in ways we couldn’t imagine. In Jesus’ name, amen.
5. Prayer for Wisdom and Guidance
Father, we face decisions that affect our family’s future, and we need Your wisdom. Your Word says if we ask for wisdom, You will give it generously, and so I ask now. Guide our hearts and minds to align with Your will. Help us to discern what is best for our family and avoid choices that lead us away from Your plan. Let Your peace rule in our decisions, and give us clarity when we feel uncertain. Thank You for being the source of all wisdom. In Jesus’ name, amen.
6. Prayer for Strength During Difficult Times
God, life can feel overwhelming at times, and we need Your strength to endure. Remind us that Your power is made perfect in our weakness. Help us to lean on You when we feel like giving up. Fill our hearts with hope and renew our faith to trust in Your plan, even when we can’t see the way forward. Give us courage to face challenges and perseverance to hold on to Your promises. Thank You for walking with us through every valley. In Jesus’ name, amen.
7. Intercessory Prayer for Children
Heavenly Father, thank You for the precious children in our family. I pray You protect them from harm and guide them in all their ways. Help them to grow in wisdom, love, and kindness. Surround them with good influences, and keep them safe from negative influences and dangers. May they always feel Your presence and know how much You love them. Give us, as parents and guardians, the wisdom to guide them according to Your ways. Thank You for entrusting us with these blessings. In Jesus’ name, amen.
8. Intercessory Prayer for Family Marriage and Spousal Relationships
Father, I pray for the marriages in our family, including my own. Strengthen the bond between spouses and help us to love each other selflessly. Teach us to communicate openly, listen patiently, and forgive quickly. Let Your love be the foundation of our relationship. Heal any wounds caused by misunderstanding or conflict and restore broken trust. May our marriage be a reflection of Your love for the Church, and may it bring glory to You. Thank You for being at the center of our union. In Jesus’ name, amen.
9. Intercessory Prayer for Family: Forgiveness and Reconciliation
Jesus, You call us to forgive as You have forgiven us. I pray for the relationships in my family that are strained or broken. Soften our hearts and help us to let go of bitterness, pride, and resentment. Teach us to seek reconciliation with humility and grace. Where there are misunderstandings, bring clarity, and where there is hurt, bring healing. May Your love be the bridge that restores peace and harmony in our family. Thank You for being the ultimate example of forgiveness. In Jesus’ name, amen.
10. Intercessory Prayer for Family Spiritual Growth
Lord, I pray for my family’s spiritual journey. Help us to grow closer to You and deepen our faith. May we hunger for Your Word and seek You in prayer daily. Teach us to live out our faith in love and kindness toward one another. Strengthen our trust in Your promises and give us courage to share Your love with others. Let Your Spirit guide us and draw us closer to Your heart. Thank You for being our constant source of spiritual strength. In Jesus’ name, amen.
11. Intercessory Prayer for the Salvation of Family Members
Heavenly Father, I lift up the family members who don’t yet know You. Open their hearts to Your love and truth. Remove any barriers keeping them from receiving the gift of salvation. Surround them with people who will reflect Your grace and encourage them toward You. I trust that You are pursuing them with unrelenting love. Use me, if it’s Your will, to show them Your light. Thank You for never giving up on them and for Your desire that none should perish. In Jesus’ name, amen.
12. Prayer for Gratitude and Thanksgiving
Father, thank You for the blessing of family. Even in our imperfections, I see Your goodness in the love we share. Thank You for providing for our needs, for protecting us, and for guiding us through life’s ups and downs. Help us to always count our blessings and give thanks to You with joyful hearts. May our gratitude overflow into our words and actions, inspiring others to see Your goodness. We are so grateful for all You’ve done and continue to do. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Tips for Making Intercessory Prayers For Family More Effective
Praying for your family is already a powerful act, but there are ways to deepen your prayers and make them even more impactful. Here are some tips that have helped me strengthen my intercessory prayers for my family:
- Pray with Faith and Expectation
When you pray, trust that God is listening and working, even if you can’t see it yet. Faith moves mountains (Matthew 17:20), and your prayers, offered with trust, can bring breakthroughs. I know it’s easy to feel doubtful sometimes, I’ve been there too but remind yourself of God’s promises. He is faithful, and He hears you. When you pray, do it with a heart full of expectation, believing that God will act in His perfect timing.
- Incorporate Fasting or Group Prayers
If you’re facing a particularly tough situation, consider pairing your prayers with fasting. Fasting is like hitting the spiritual “amplify” button. It helps you focus on God and align your heart with His will. Another option is to involve others in prayer. Whether it’s your spouse, a prayer group, or a trusted friend, praying together can be incredibly powerful. Matthew 18:20 reminds us, “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”
- Keep a Prayer Journal
I can’t recommend this enough, keeping a prayer journal has been a game-changer for me. Write down the names of family members you’re praying for, their specific needs, and any Bible verses you’re standing on. Over time, you’ll be amazed at how many prayers are answered. Plus, it’s a beautiful way to reflect on God’s faithfulness. There’s something so uplifting about flipping through old pages and realizing, “Wow, God really showed up here!”
- Pray Aloud or in Writing
Sometimes, praying silently in your head can feel distracting. If that’s the case, try speaking your prayers aloud or writing them down. There’s no right or wrong way to pray and what matters is that you connect with God in a way that feels meaningful to you. Personally, I’ve had moments where speaking my prayers aloud made them feel more real, like having an honest heart-to-heart with God.
- Pray Specific Prayers
The more specific your prayers, the more personal they become. Instead of praying, “Lord, bless my family,” try, “Lord, please guide my daughter as she navigates her career decisions,” or, “Please give my brother courage as he faces his surgery.” God cares about every detail of our lives, and lifting those specifics to Him makes our prayers more intimate.
- Be Patient and Persistent
Sometimes, answers don’t come as quickly as we’d like, and it’s easy to get discouraged. But remember, God’s timing is perfect, even when it doesn’t align with ours. Keep praying, even when you don’t see immediate results. Luke 18:1 reminds us to “always pray and not give up.” Trust that God is working behind the scenes, even in the waiting.
The most important thing to remember is that prayer is a relationship, not a ritual. It’s about connecting with God and inviting Him into your family’s joys and struggles. Whether your prayers are long or short, whispered or written, they matter to Him and so does your family.
Intercessory Prayers scriptures for Family
God’s Word is full of promises and guidance that can strengthen your intercessory prayers for family. Incorporating scripture into your prayers is a powerful way to align your heart with God’s will and claim His promises. Here are some Bible verses you can use to inspire your prayers:
1. Psalm 133:1
How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity.
2. Psalm 121:8
The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.
3. Psalm 147:3
He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.
4. Philippians 4:19
And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus.
5. 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.
6. Psalm 28:7
The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and He helps me.
7. Proverbs 22:6
Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.
8. Ecclesiastes 4:12
Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.
9. Ephesians 4:32
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
10. 2 Peter 3:18
But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and forever.
How to Use These Verses
When you pray, try personalizing these verses by inserting your family’s names or specific situations. For example:
“Lord, Your Word says You will watch over our coming and going. I ask for Your protection over [name].”
By speaking scripture back to God, you’re standing on His promises and inviting His power into your prayers.
Conclusion
Praying intercessory prayers for family is one of the most powerful ways we can love and support our loved ones. Through prayer, we invite God to work in the areas where we feel helpless, trusting Him to bring peace, healing, and restoration. These 12 prayers and scriptures are tools to help you stand in the gap for your family and see God’s hand at work in their lives.
Remember, you don’t have to have all the right words or pray perfectly, what matters is showing up and pouring your heart out to God. He hears every prayer, even the ones whispered through tears or said in moments of frustration. Keep lifting your family up to Him, trusting in His faithfulness and perfect timing.
As you pray these intercessory prayers for family, don’t forget to celebrate the victories along the way, no matter how small they seem. Gratitude keeps our hearts aligned with God and reminds us of His goodness.
I encourage you to bookmark this article, share it with a friend, or even write these prayers in a journal. Let’s continue to cover our families in prayer and watch as God works wonders in their lives.
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