October 9, 2019 · AMY HECKMAN
“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests…” - Ephesians 6:18a, NIV
Prayer is a critical part of the compassionate outreach of local churches supported by Nazarene Compassionate Ministries. We know that prayer is a vital spiritual practice for all followers of Christ. We believe that when we pray for needs around the world and the churches working to meet those needs, the Spirit will move actively to bring about God’s will, changing our hearts in the process.
Sometimes, though, it can be hard to know how to pray for all the problems we hear about or read about on the news. To help inspire your time in conversation with the Lord, we’ve put together some short prayers you can use and share. The next time you hear about an area of need, consider writing a similar prayer to help you focus as you lift the need to God.
Praying for Refugees
“Dear Lord, today I pray for the displaced, the refugee, the migrant, the asylum seeker, and the immigrant. Though they have many names, each shares the same story of seeking desperately for shelter and safety. For those living in refugee camps, I pray for safety from the weather, violence, and crime. I pray for easy access to food.
I pray for health and strength during times of stress. For those traveling, I pray for safety. I ask for compassionate hearts to minister to them on the journey. For those who have been resettled, I pray for comfort, familiarity, and peace as they learn new spaces. I pray for arms of welcome and care from churches and individuals to surround all who have had to leave home. Amen.”
Praying for Women and Girls
“Dear God, I lift up girls and women all around the world. In many places, girls grow up being told they are less valuable than boys, and they have less access to things like education. Many women are made vulnerable to abuse or trafficking. I pray for these, your children, made in your image. I pray that from birth, girls would be valued and educated.
I pray for young women, for their safety from all harm. I pray for mothers who face dangers in childbirth, that they may have access to medical care. I pray for churches to lead the way and open doors to economic freedom for women through programs like small business loans and vocational training. I pray you would help me to value the women in my life and the women around the world in both word and deed. Amen.”
Praying for Those who are Thirsty
“Loving God, I ask for your blessings on children, mothers, fathers, and communities who are thirsty. Purify, protect, and multiply their sources of water. Connect compassionate programs and outreaches to communities where there is need for new water sources and sanitation resources. Bring healing through the clean water that flows from wells and filters. May it provide opportunities for growth and health for all who drink it. May those who thirst also come to know the source of living water, your Son and our Savior. Amen.”
Praying in the Midst of Disasters
“Compassionate God, when disasters come, draw near. When famine, war, earthquakes, floods, or disease strikes, help those impacted to know you are not silent. In times of sorrow and anguish, comfort all who mourn, strengthen those who are weary, encourage those in despair, and lead them to peace and safety. Be with the helpers who serve in the middle of crisis. May they know your strength and grace. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.”
Praying for Children
“Lord, you have demonstrated your love for children in scripture. I know you value and love all children, all around the world. I pray that you would give me eyes see children in need, both near me and far away. I pray for a heart that is called to respond to those needs. Help me to know how to serve children with your love and care. Give churches the tools to minister to children in need and their families—emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Amen.”
Praying for a Heart of Compassion
“Gracious God, everywhere I turn I can see suffering. It is so easy for me to close myself off to the pain others experience. Help me to consider where I may invest my time, treasures, or talents in relieving suffering. Give me a greater sense of compassion when I encounter people who are suffering. May I be your hands to a world in need. Amen.”
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