“But it is actually best for you that I go away, because if I don't, the Counselor won't come. If I do go away, he will come because I will send him to you. And when he comes, he will convince the world of its sin, and of God's righteousness, and of the coming judgment.” ~John 16:7-8 NLT
Prayer is the most important and powerful thing we can do for international students. Here are some suggestions for ways to pray for Indian students from a Hindu background each day of the week.
Monday – Pray that Indian students would long for real spirituality that involves a relationship with an infinite and personal God. Hebrews 11:6 NLT – “So, you see, it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that there is a God and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.”
Tuesday – Pray that Indian students would open themselves to humbly seeking after God.
Psalm 69:32-33 NLT – “The humble will see their God at work and be glad. Let all who seek God’s help live in joy. For the LORD hears the cries of his needy ones; he does not despise his people who are oppressed.”
Wednesday – Pray that Indian students would see things in Christians which they would want in their own lives and realize those things only come from Christ. 1 Peter 3:15 NLT – “Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if you are asked about your Christian hope, always be ready to explain it.”
Thursday – Pray that Indian students would be open to studying God’s Word the Bible. Romans 10:17 NLT - “Yet faith comes from listening to this message of good news - the Good News about Christ.”
Friday – Pray that Indian students would be open to exploring the exclusive claims of Christ.
John 14:6 – “Jesus told him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.”
Saturday – Pray that Indian students would be open to a discipling relationship with a mature Christian. Luke 14:33 NLT – “So no one can become my disciple without giving up everything for me.”
Sunday – Pray that Indian students would be willing to share their new faith with their peers and that God would use it to start a revival. Romans 1:16 NLT – “For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes - Jews first and also Gentiles.”
Principles cited in this blog: Prayer is the most important and powerful thing we can do for Indian students from a Hindu background.
Application for ISI ministry: The key to changed lives is asking the Holy Spirit to do it in Jesus’ name.
Next blog topic: How to pray for Muslim students specifically
Doug Shaw with Derrah Jackson