Dear Christians, why do you say "I'll pray for you?"?

Question

Many people at my church say this but how many of those people actually pray for that person when they after that?

Isn't it sort of like when a cashier says "have a nice day" when she could really care less?

If you say you're going to do something for someone, than DO IT!

Thanks, I'm getting some good answers. I guess there are still people out there who really do pray for others.

Answer 1

I pray for people - but have to admit I feel guilty and horrible if I forget someone whom I said I would pray for.., names and reason - that sort of thing. Of course when I realize it, I pray at that point.

While I'm not a casheir..., Have a nice day. And I mean it. :-)

Answer 2

You're right - it can be a flippant thing to say but probably most times said out of true concern to let you know they care - whether they follow through or not is another story...I heard a pastor say once that it always bothered him that he was telling people that he would pray and then would forget or just not do it...so, instead of telling he people he would pray, he would stop right there and pray with the person - I have tried to adapt this in my own life - or if I tell someone I'll pray, I'll write it down so I don't forget...
I'm sure that some people really mean it and do follow through - I think God can remind us so we are true to our word!

Answer 3

This covers an awful lot of people, so there's no way to generalise - some will go home and pray earnestly for the people they believe need it, some will forget them the moment they leave their company. Either way, just like the cashier who says "have a nice day", for however long the impulse lasts, it's got to be good to have people spend some time thinking of you, and hoping for positive things for you. People saying they'll pray for you might come across as condescending, but ultimately it does no harm in this context. Enjoy it.

Answer 4

True, but it's equally important to put your best foot forward and not be purposefully careless about others, it's good for people to be polite and pleasant. It just might make someone else day. After all it's just a passing comment, try not to be so hard on other people and give a helping hand. It might be good for them to say something good. Be in good cheer.
When I say I'll pray for you. I really do so. When I say have a nice day I feel I'm being encouraging.

Answer 5

I can answer your question. We say "I'll pray for you," because we know prayer is powerful. When we pray to God, of course. God is right there listening and seeing what we do and say; he knows everything that goes on! When you pray for someone, you're helping them of whatever they might be going through or just to pray to give them peace because day by day they are packed full of things to do and after awhile you just get so stressed out!:) In the Bible it says, I do not give or answer you because you ask not. So, when we pray using the name of Jesus, He's really listening to us!

Answer 6

I personally pray for those who I say "I'll pray for you" because prayers do work. Maybe the cashier doesn't care, but I know I do.

Answer 7

Yeah, I guess it is. Although i do know a few people at my church who pray for an hour every morning, so there are some people who really mean it when they say it.

Answer 8

When I say I'm going to pray for someone I actually do pray for that person for whatever it is that they're struggling with or what not. But I definitely agree with you about if they're going to say it they should follow through

Answer 9

I keep a prayer journal. I pray by name when I can, but I always pray for those I say I will.
And now I'll pray for you as well today.

Answer 10

yes,most of the people at church say i'll pray for you. some of the people actually pray for u.while some just say that for formality.dnt depend on their prayers ,you yourself must pray to the lord.