We all have those special people in our lives that we care deeply about. Whether they are our partners, children, parents or close friends, we want the very best for their health, happiness and wellbeing. As someone who tries to stay connected to my faith, I’ve found prayer to be a meaningful way of expressing my care and concern for loved ones. Here are 20 short prayers you can use to lift up the important people in your life.
How do I pray for the person I love?
When praying for someone dear to my heart, I like to take time to be very specific. Father God, as I lift up [name] to you now, I ask you to watch over them with your ever-watchful eye, protecting them from every kind of danger, accident or harm as they go through their day. Please guide their steps, decisions and path, directing their way according to your perfect plan and purposes. Bless them richly with good health of body, peace of mind, and joy in their spirit. Where stress or worries weigh heavy, comfort them with your strength and calm their heart. Use people and resources in their life to shower them with acts of love, support and kindness.
Help them to feel your presence surrounding them and filling their soul with the assurance of your faithfulness. For any struggles or difficulties ahead, grant them grace, wisdom and perseverance to face each challenge with courage, trust in you, and eyes fixed on your promises. You are able to do far more than we could ever ask or imagine – I pray you meet them right where they are with your blessings, mercy and provision.
Importance of praying for Someone You Love
Praying for those we love is so important because it allows us to intercede powerfully on their behalf. Our loving God longs to shower his children with favor, but he invites us to join with him through prayer. When we lift others by name before the Father’s throne, it connects their deepest needs and hopes directly to the one who specializes in miraculous help, healing and transformation. Through prayer, we can stand in the gap for our loved ones during difficult seasons, declaring God’s promises of strength, protection, wisdom and peace over their lives, even when we are far away. And because there is so much spiritual warfare waging constantly, united prayer forms a hedge of guarding around our dear ones.
When we pray together with others who love them too, scripture assures our prayers become even more effective. Prayer keeps our focus on God’s ability rather than the circumstances, and it allows him to work behind the scenes in amazing ways. What a blessing to bring our loved ones to Jesus, interceding for his ultimate will and purpose for their lives to be fulfilled!
21 Short Prayers for Someone You Love
My hope is that these simple prayers will provide a way to regularly lift up the important people in your life before our Father’s loving throne. His mercies are new every morning, and he longs to shower his children with grace, peace, strength and more.
Below are 21 short prayers you can pray for someone you love who may be facing challenges:
1. Prayer for their health and wellbeing
Heavenly Father, your word says that a friend loves at all times, and I come before you now as a friend of [name]. I lift them up to your throne of grace, knowing that you care deeply for each of your children. Their physical body, mental wellness, and spiritual condition are of utmost importance. I ask you to please watch over [name] with your loving, watchful eye – guarding them from sickness, protecting them from accidents, shielding them from viruses or diseases. Give them strength each day to face life’s challenges, energy to pursue their goals and duties, and resilience in the face of fatigue. When stresses weigh heavy on their mind or emotions, provide calm reassurance. Should any struggles or health issues arise, supply wisdom to doctors, comfort through family or friends, and healing according to your perfect will. Help [name] make choices each day that support a sound and abundant life – choices about nutrition, exercise, rest. Fill them with your peace which surpasses understanding so they do not worry or fear what is to come. You are the great physician, and I trust you fully to sustain [name] with your care, mercy and grace. I ask all of this in the powerful name of Jesus Christ my Lord and Savior, to whom every knee shall bow. Amen.
2. Prayer for peace and comfort in difficult times
Heavenly Father, once again I come before your holy presence on behalf of your child, [name], who is facing [specify difficulty or trial]. The storms of life sometimes rage fiercely, but you alone have authority over wind and wave. You promised that in this world we would have troubles, but to take heart because you have overcome the world. I ask that you would pour out your peace into [name]’s heart in a mighty way – a peace that transcends logic or reason, a peace the world cannot give or take away. Flood their mind with scriptures and memories of your faithfulness to strengthen their hope. Remind them through signs of your nearness that they do not walk this road alone. You are Immanuel, God with us, and you will never abandon or forsake your own. As they pass through this valley, let your rod and staff comfort them until they dwell in your house once more with songs of deliverance and praise on their lips. You are able to do exceedingly, abundantly above all we ask or imagine according to your mighty power. I ask this in the all-powerful name of Jesus, the conqueror of sin and death. Amen.
3. Prayer for happiness and joy in each new day
Heavenly Father, I lift up your child [name] to you once more. Each morning is truly a gift, for none of us have been promised a tomorrow. How wonderful it is that you lavish your goodness upon us daily in so many ways – from the sunrise lighting the sky to warm embraces from loved ones. I ask that you would pour out extra measures of your joy, gladness and delight into [name]’s heart. Help them find moments to be thankful, to experience pleasure in life’s simple gifts, and to remember your promises of abundance, not scarcity. When worries or troubles threaten to steal their cheer, nudge them to focus on your faithfulness, mercy and provision instead. Grant them blessings to lift their eyes above their circumstances – blessings like health, family, purpose, accomplishments, beauty in creation. You are the God who satisfies our souls with your unfailing love, and I ask that [name] would know this experientially each new day. May the joy of the Lord be their strength! I ask this in the precious name of Jesus, our joy and the lifter of our heads. Amen.
4. Prayer for strength when facing challenges
Heavenly Father, your word tells us that you are our refuge and strength, a very present help in times of trouble. I lift up [name] to you now, asking that you would pour out your supernatural strength into their heart, mind, body and spirit. Grant them perseverance to push on when weariness creeps in or obstacles seem too high. Give them resilience to bounce back after setbacks and courage to take on each new task. May your power be made perfect in their weakness so that through Christ who strengthens them, they can do all things. When challenges come against them like waves of the sea, steady their heart to know that you have overcome the world. May they sense your mighty right hand upholding them, giving them fortitude beyond their own ability. Fill them with your peace and power so that no difficulty can overtake them but instead becomes an opportunity to see your faithfulness displayed. I ask this in the all-sufficient name of Jesus, my strong tower and defense. Amen.
5. Prayer for wisdom and guidance in making important decisions
Heavenly Father, your word says that if any lacks wisdom, we should ask of you who gives generously and without reproach. I lift up [name] before your throne now, asking that you would grant them insight, discernment and clarity as they face [specify decision if desired]. Shine the light of your Holy Spirit into their heart and mind to reveal the choices that are pleasing in your sight. Help them to discern the long term implications and consequences of potential options. Where there is confusion, bring direction. Where there is indecision, grant conviction. Protect them from the deceptive influences of the world, the flesh and the devil that seek only to steal, kill and destroy. Guide their steps according to your perfect will and way. You are a lamp unto their feet and a light unto their path – I ask that you would illuminate the road clearly before them. May they walk in wisdom, making decisions that honor you. I ask this through the counsel of my Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.
6. Prayer for protection from harm
Heavenly Father, your word says that you will command your angels to guard your children in all their ways. As I lift up [name] to you now, I ask that you dispatch your angelic hosts around them for protection. May your angels watch over them, defend them from danger seen and unseen, and keep them safe from schemes of the enemy who prowls like a roaring lion. Where evil lurks with intent to harm, may your angels thwart its plans. Whether [name] travels by land, sea or air, keep them from every kind of accident or tragedy. Whether at home or abroad, shield them from acts of violence or lawlessness. You have not given us a spirit of fear but of power, love and a sound mind – so fill [name] with your peace even in uncertain times. May they dwell in the shadow of the Almighty without a care or fear under the sun. I claim the promise of Psalm 91 over them in the mighty name of Jesus, who holds all authority in heaven and on earth. Amen.
7. Prayer for fulfilling their dreams and purposes in life
Heavenly Father,
you are the great Creator who has formed each person uniquely with talents, passions and a divine purpose. I lift up [name] to you now and ask that you would guide them clearly toward their role in your perfect plan. Reveal to them through open and still revelations the dreams and goals that most delight your heart for their life. Where there is confusion over direction, shine light on the path ahead. Give them courage to step out in faith, trusting that you will order their steps. Surround them with mentors, resources and open doors to pursue their calling. May they find fulfillment, joy and meaning through meaningful work and acts of service. Use them as a vessel for your glory and help them recognize the ways they are gifted to build up your kingdom. And for any dreams not of you, gently nudge them to another way that is well-pleasing in your sight. I ask this through the one who is the true source of purpose and meaning, Jesus Christ my Lord.
Amen.
8. Prayer for thanksgiving for their friendship/partnership
Heavenly Father, what a blessing that in your goodness you have brought [name] into my life. I am so grateful for the role they play as [specify relationship] and for all the joy, support, laughter and memories we share. Thank you that even through challenging times, our bond has grown stronger. I pray that you would bless our friendship/partnership, strengthening the ties that bind our hearts. May we encourage one another in faith, build each other up with kind, edifying words, forgive freely, and spur one another on to love and good deeds. Please help us cherish each moment together without taking it for granted. May our interactions always reflect your light and bring you glory. I am so thankful for this gift. All praise and honor be to your holy name, O God, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
9. Prayer for patience and understanding with each other
Heavenly Father, all relationships require maintenance, grace and hard work. As [name] and I journey together through this season of life, I ask for your help in our interactions. Please give us gentle, teachable spirits that are slow to anger and quick to listen. When stresses arise or tensions mount, grant us self-control and empathy for the other’s perspective. Help us communicate respectfully, finding understanding instead of accusation. Where there are misunderstandings, nudge us toward clarifying discussion and compromise when needed. May your peace umpire our interactions so that anger has no hold and hurt is healed by forgiveness. Fill our hearts with patience, kindness, humility and compassion for one another. Use our bond to reflect the unconditional love and acceptance between Father, Son and Spirit. We ask this in the reconciling name of Jesus, our Prince of Peace. Amen.
10. Prayer for forgiveness when mistakes are made
Heavenly Father, you are slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. As [name] and I navigate this journey together, we are not perfect and will inevitably hurt one another at times. I pray that when offenses come, as they surely will, you would soften our hearts to forgive freely as Christ forgave us. Where there is bitterness, nudge us toward reconciliation. Help us release resentment and grant us empathy for human weakness. May the balm of forgiveness heal old wounds and usher in restoration of our bond. For times when I have erred, give me a humble, repentant spirit quick to make amends through confession and restitution. I ask this in the name of Jesus, who paid sin’s debt in full that we may know undeserved pardon and grace. Amen.
11. Prayer for openness and honesty in communication
Heavenly Father, your word says that truth freely spoken without guile is like apples of gold in settings of silver. As [name] and I seek to stay connected through open dialogue, I pray we would reflect these virtues. Help us to listen with care, understand with wisdom and speak with truth, grace and discretion. Where there is confusion or lack of clarity, may your Spirit guide us to reveal our whole hearts to one another – not in accusation but in love. Shield us from hidden agendas or half-truths that breed mistrust. And give us humility to receive hard feedback or tough love with teachable spirits. May all that is said and unsaid between us honor you. I ask this in the name of He who is the Way, the Truth and the Life. Amen.
12. Prayer for kindness and compassion towards others
Heavenly Father, you have called us to be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving as you forgive us. I lift up [name] and pray that through their interactions each day, others would see a reflection of your goodness, mercy and grace. May they treat all people with dignity, respect and compassion. Give them eyes to notice those in need and a heart inclined to acts of selflessness. When others face difficulties, may [name] comfort them in the same way you comfort us. Use them as a vessel of your light, spreading cheer through small kindnesses. Help them reflect patience with the difficult, acceptance of the unlovely, and love for the unlovable as you commanded. May the fruit of your Spirit abound in them so that in honoring others, they bring you honor. I pray this in the name of Jesus, who came to serve and not be served. Amen.
13. Prayer for gratitude for the blessings already received
Heavenly Father, you are so good to us, giving grace upon grace each day. As I lift up [name] before your throne, I pray they would cultivate a heart of gratitude. Help them recognize with wonder how you have richly blessed them – from provisions of food and shelter, to relationships, health, talents and opportunities. When worries or wants threaten to breed discontent, nudge them to count their joys instead of their needs. May thanksgiving be the attitude that rises from their lips each morning and evening. Use blessings in their life to point them always back to your faithfulness as their source. And when life seems hard, remind them through your Spirit of all the ways you have proven yourself in the past. I ask that [name] would reflect on your goodness and choose praise instead of complaint. All glory be to your matchless name through Jesus Christ our Lord! Amen.
14. Prayer for safety when traveling or in unfamiliar places
Heavenly Father, your word says that even when we walk through the valley of the shadow of death, we will fear no evil for you are with us. As [name] ventures [specify trip or location], I ask for your protection and peace to surround them. Whether by land, sea or air, may your angels clear the way before them and watch over their steps. In unfamiliar or unpredictable situations, grant them presence of mind and instincts to make wise choices. Shield them from dangers seen and unseen – from accidents to attacks to uncertainties of weather or terrain. Calm their spirit with the assurance that you are their ever-present help in trouble. Bring them home safely after each trip that you may be glorified as their shield and reward. I claim the promise of Psalm 91 over them in Jesus’ name. Amen.
15. Prayer for comfort when suffering from illness or pain
Compassionate Father, there may come a time when illness or injury cause [name] discomfort in body or spirit. As I lift them to your loving care now, give strength to endure hard days with courage and faith. Surround them with your peace that is beyond medical circumstances so they do not fear what is to come. May your word and promises lift their head in times of weakness. Use family or friends to shower them with acts of love. And in your perfect timing, restore their health whether through earthly healing or grace to accept your will. For any struggles ahead, provide wisdom to doctors and comfort beyond what is seen. You are our healer – may [name] know you hold their life in your hands. I ask this through Jesus, the great physician. Amen.
16. Prayer for courage to overcome fears and hardships
Heavenly Father, your word tells us that perfect love casts out all fear. As I lift up [name], I pray that when doubts or worries assail their heart, you give them supernatural courage. Where they struggle with anxiety, depression or insecurity, shine your peace and fill them with faith in your goodness. Help them recognize lies of the enemy that seek to steal their joy. May they stand on your promises with head held high through every storm. Whether facing inner turmoil or outer trials, grant them bravery to persevere. Use difficulties as an opportunity to see your strength made perfect in their weakness. And when the road seems long, remind them that you are able to do far more than we dare ask or imagine according to your power at work within us. I ask this through Jesus, who is the pioneer and perfecter of our faith. Amen.
17. Prayer for faith and trust in God/Mighty power
Heavenly Father, your word says that without faith it is impossible to please you, for whoever would draw near to you must believe that you exist and are a rewarder of those who seek you. I pray that deep within [name]’s heart, they would know with assurance your goodness, power, faithfulness and great love. May their foundation be built upon the solid Rock, not sinking sand, so that no storm can shake their confidence. When life feels uncertain, give them eyes to see your hand at work behind the scenes. Help them rely on your strength, not their own understanding, in all of life’s affairs. May they walk by faith and not by sight, trusting you fully with their present and future hopes. Keep their heart anchored in the shelter of your wings until that day when faith gives way to sight in your holy presence. I ask this through Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith. Amen.
18. Prayer for salvation and eternal life (if applicable belief)
Heavenly Father, your word says that God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. I lift up [name] before your throne and pray that if they have not yet received this free gift of salvation, you would open their eyes to see and their heart to believe. Reveal Jesus to them as Savior and Lord so they can know the forgiveness of sins and hope of heaven. Use your church family or circumstances to draw them into faith. And for any believer, I pray they would grow in their relationship with you – studying your word, praying, fellowshipping with other Christians and shining your light to a lost world. May the hope of eternity with you in glory be their anchor in this life and motivation for good works. I claim the promise of John 3:16 over [name] in Jesus’ name. Amen.
19. A prayer of your own choosing
Heavenly Father, you know [name] better than anyone and see their deepest needs, hopes and struggles. I ask that you would meet them right where they are today, showering them with your love, grace and truth. Reveal to them through scripture, circumstances or your Spirit’s still small voice how deeply you care. Help them recognize your presence in the ordinary as well as extraordinary moments. For any area of their life not surrendered to you fully, I pray you would tenderly woo them closer. Use this time we’ve spent lifting them up to draw their heart into a fresh encounter with you, the lover of their soul. May they experience your joy, peace and strength in new ways as a result. All this I ask in Jesus’ holy name. Amen.
20. A short prayer asking for prayers for your loved one
Heavenly Father, I lift up [name] one final time. Please bless all those praying for their life with faith, perseverance and unity in intercession. As your people join me in covering [name] with prayer, I believe and declare that the effective, fervent prayers of the righteous avail much. May the power of united prayer shield and protect them, bring wisdom in decisions, and draw them ever closer in their walk with you, our great God. I ask this in the precious name of Jesus, with grateful thanks. Amen.
A Short prayer for someone you love
Heavenly Father, I come before you today lifting up [name]. They mean so much to me and I’m so grateful for the role they play in my life. Right now I ask for your blessings of love, joy, health and peace in their life.
Please watch over [name] as they go about their day. Protect them from any dangers, shield them from harm, and guide their steps. Give them strength for the challenges they face and comfort for any struggles or worries on their heart.
Fill [name] with your presence, Lord. Remind them through signs in their day of how deeply you care for them. Help them feel your love, peace and provision. Use small acts of kindness in their life to point them to your faithfulness.
I pray you bless [name] abundantly, Father, in every area of their life. May your favor rest on them and all their needs be met according to your glorious riches. Thank you for this person you have brought into my life. I ask this in the powerful name of Jesus, Amen.
What is a good Prayer for love?
A short and sweet prayer for love could be:
Heavenly Father, I come before you with gratitude for the deep love I have for [name]. Thank you for bringing this special person into my life and for the joy they bring me each day. I pray that our relationship would honor and glorify you in all things. Please bless our bond of affection, continuing to strengthen the ties that bind our hearts together. As I love them, help me to love them in truth – with sincere care, respect, patience and kindness. Guide us to communicate openly yet gently, to understand each other fully, and to be a source of comfort, support and encouragement in both good and challenging times. Most of all, I ask that the pure and unconditional love we have would point to your perfect love. Pour your Spirit into our lives so that our love overflows with grace, mercy, forgiveness and compassion. Use us as vessels to reflect Christ’s love to one another and to the world. I lift up our relationship to you now with deep gratitude. Thank you for this special gift. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Conclusion
Whether your loved one is facing challenges with their health, family, work or other life circumstances, prayer is so powerful. Offering up brief prayers like these each day can cover them in God’s protection, peace and strength during difficult times. You can pray through these prayers yourself or even share them with your loved one to encourage and support them in their walk with the Lord. May the one who hears and answers prayer bring comfort and hope.