My husband, Joe, has a long-time friend who has been running away from God all of his life. Some years ago, the Lord led me to begin praying for this man and his family on a regular basis. I stood on God's promise which says: "[The Lord] will even deliver the one [for whom you intercede] who is not innocent; yes, he will be delivered through the cleanness of your hands." (Job 22:30 AMP)

As it turned out, my husband's friend didn't turn his life over to Christ after I prayed faithfully for years, but his son did. Not only did this son get saved, but he married a Christlike believer who encouraged his devotion to the Lord. They have three children now - grandchildren of my husband's friend - and God is using these little ones, and their godly parents, to draw this man to Him. Now they can claim God's promise in Acts 16:31 (NASB), which says: "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household." And I believe with all my heart that it's only a matter of time before Joe's friend surrenders his life to the Lord.

If you have people you care about who are unsaved, pray faithfully for them. Even if they look like a hopeless case, rest assured that the Lord has a way of reaching them, perhaps even through their own loved ones. Let this encouraging promise from the Scriptures fill you with a fresh sense of hope today - "The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working]!" (James 5:16 AMP)

Prayer: Lord, show me who You would like me to pray for at this time, and help me to be faithful in prayer. Remind me often that my prayers can bring salvation to the lost, freedom to the oppressed, and healing to the hurting in Jesus' name. When I am tempted to quit and give up praying, fill me with a fresh sense of hope. Thank You that as I persevere in prayer, You will move heaven and earth to bring my petitions to pass!