When a Spirit-filled relative of mine couldn't seem to grasp certain important Bible truths, I prayed the Ephesian prayers for him every morning and night, inserting his name in the appropriate places:
"Lord, I'm praying this prayer for 'Joe.' God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, give unto 'Joe' the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him. I pray that the eyes of 'Joe's' understanding be enlightened; that 'Joe' may know what is the hope of His calling, and what is the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints."
And I continued on through both prayers. I prayed these prayers for him morning and night for ten days. Finally he wrote me, saying, "It's amazing how things have opened up to me. I'm beginning to see what you've been talking about." No human teacher had talked to him about spiritual matters.
People frequently want to know how to pray for friends and loved ones. Some people just pray, "God, bless them." But God has already blessed them with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ Jesus (Eph. 1:3). They just don't know it, so they can't take advantage of it. Pray these Ephesian prayers for your friends and loved ones. Stay with it morning and night, and more frequently if you can.
Confession: (Pray the Ephesian prayers for someone you desire to walk in the truth.)
Excerpt permission granted by Faith Library Publications