As life would have it, we all go through a difficult season at one time or another. That is why we are able to empathize with others when we see them going through a hard time. So what can we do to help? The first and most powerful way is through prayer. Lifting in prayer for someone going through a hard time touches the heart of God because we are loving our neighbors.
How To Pray For Someone Going Through A Hard Time
Prayer is undoubtedly powerful. In his letter to the Ephesians, Paul asked them to pray for each other and even for him.
And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should. - Ephesians 6: 18-20 (NIV)
Praying for others should be a regular part of our prayer routine. We tend to pray for those that are dear and close to us because they may share their burdens with us. But sometimes we may not know what others are going through because they’re more private. Or it may be that we do not even know them personally. They could be complete strangers! No matter the case, we know that this world desperately needs the hands of God. So here are some prayers to guide us through.
Prayer For Peace
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. - John 14:27 (NIV)
Heavenly Father, I pray for Your perfect peace to accompany (name of person) right now. You know the hurt, loneliness, and sadness that they’re going through. Don’t let (her or him) feel abandoned or pay attention to any lies of the enemy. Don’t allow (her or him) to turn to anything else in search of only what You can provide because there’s no amount of worldly comfort that can compare with the true peace that You give. Cover (her or him) with the peace that surpasses all understanding. Call (name of person) to Yourself. I pray this in Jesus’s name. Amen.
Prayer For For Strength
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. - Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)
Heavenly Father, I come to the foot of Your throne to ask for strength for (name of person). Right now, You know how defeated they feel. They are losing hope and unsure of what to do next. Father, just as You told the Israelites that You will strengthen them and help them, help (name of person). Go with (her or him) and uphold (her or him) with Your righteous right hand.
Empower (her or him) so that they are able to accomplish above and beyond what (she or he) could ever imagine for (herself or himself). Show (name of person) who You are so that You can use (her or him) for Your kingdom. I pray this in Jesus’s name. Amen.
Prayer For Wisdom
If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. - James 1:5 (NIV)
Heavenly Father, I lift up (name of person) right now. Lord, you know their situation and the decisions that they’re going to have to make. They are burdened with knowing what to do and whether what they plan to do is the right step to take. Lord, you said to ask for wisdom, and that it will be given to us. I pray that wisdom is given to (her or him). Remove all the lies and deception from the enemy. Drown out all the noise that is clouding (her or his) judgment. Make it absolutely clear to (her or him) what is in line with Your best for (her or him).
Let it be known to (name of person) through ways that (she or he) can understand. Whether it is through dreams, visions, and signs. And Lord, I know that You said all things will end up for our good. So with that truth, give (her or him) the wisdom to confidently rely on You, to seek You, and to be able to listen to Your instructions. I pray for Your best in (name of person)’s life and everyone that is involved. I pray this in Jesus’s name. Amen.
What To Remember When Praying For Someone Going Through A Hard Time
These prayers are only a simple guideline to help you pray for someone. When we’re lifting up others in prayer, remember it is the sincerity of our hearts that is important. God is not moved by pretty placed words or fancy prayers. God looks at the condition of our hearts. We must pray fervently and wholeheartedly. We must pray as if we’re praying for ourselves or for those that we love deeply. And our God is good to answer our prayers, even if it is different from the way we expect Him to answer.
We pray for others because they are loved by the God that we serve. While we may not be called to be preachers, teachers, or evangelists for the Kingdom of God, we can still serve by being prayer warriors for the body of Christ.
Recommendation
Knowing God starts with knowing His Word. The Word of God is alive and active. If you don’t already own a Bible, there are many churches that give one for free. You can also download a YouVersion Bible App on your phone. Or if you’d like a physical copy, it can easily be found on amazon. Get one for your friend if they do not have one already.