What does Hebrews 13:19 mean?

The prior verse demonstrates exactly the kind of humility required of those who claim to teach the Word of God (James 3:1). There, the plea was that the readers would pray to keep the writer's conscience clear and his actions honorable (Hebrews 13:18). Faced with a godly, modest leader, the earlier instruction to cooperate with spiritual leaders becomes much easier, and much more natural (Hebrews 13:7; 13:17).

In this verse, the writer includes an appeal that his readers pray for restoration. In this case, the writer means having an ability to visit these persecuted believers once again. Wording such as this lends weight to the belief that Paul wrote this letter, since he often expressed a desire to see those to whom he wrote letters. In his case, prison and persecution often interfered with his ability to travel freely. This request is given some emphasis, as something "urged," and "the more earnestly." There is no question that the writer of this passage sincerely wishes to see his readers again.

The following verse features a benediction, which is the equivalent of a prayer from the writer, on behalf of his readers.