In all my years of ministry, not a single person has ever turned down an offer from me to pray for them.

A famous Uruguayan novelist was openly atheistic, self-confident, and frankly arrogant.  We were in the capital city.  He sent me a desperate plea: “My only child was killed in a car crash this week.  Please see me and my wife.  We are devastated.”  They came, and I quoted scripture promises and then I asked, “Can I pray for you?” They said, “Of course.”  That prayer opened the door for a half-hour conversation about the cross, the resurrection, the power of Jesus Christ, and the hope of eternal life. If you have people in your life who don’t know Jesus, asking to pray for them can be a great conversation starter. If you aren’t sure how to begin to discuss the Good News, asking to pray can be a great first step. You will encourage that person, and open the door to greater spiritual discussions. You will be amazed how God uses you to reach your world. In Paul’s first letter to Timothy, he writes, “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people.” Offer to pray for a friend today, and see what God will do through you.

This is Luis Palau.