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Elderly Guatemalan woman kneels at her bed and prays, with traditional embroidered blanket on the bed.

4 Ways to Pray in Times of Uncertainty

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WRITTEN BY Esther Martinez

Why Finding Ways to Pray in Times of Uncertainty Is So Important

It seems like every time we check our newsfeeds or turn on the TV, we are overwhelmed with constant updates about different crises around the globe. We even feel the impact of some of these crises in our own homes and cities.

As a result, it’s common to feel anxiety and uncertainty during these challenging times. In these moments, it serves us well to remember that God is an almighty fortress of hope and protection. He invites us to take refuge in Him through prayer when we are feeling fearful and alone.

Whether you pray on your own or with others, finding ways to pray during times of uncertainty is important because we know that through Christ, everything will be okay.

Because of Jesus, we can come to God with our trials and tribulations and receive hope and comfort. Here are four ways you can approach God during your time of prayer.

1. Reflect on Scripture

Sometimes the best way to turn to God is to listen and reflect on His words. May these Bible verses encourage you and fill you with God’s peace, love, and protection. Here are some of our favorite verses to pray out loud during times of uncertainty.

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” — Psalm 46:1

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.”— 2 Timothy 1:7

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:6-7

 

“Humble yourselves, then, under God’s mighty hand, so that he will lift you up in his own good time. Leave all your worries with him, because he cares for you.” — 1 Peter 5:6-7

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” — Romans 15:13

2. Pray with Others

Praying together in faith is a powerful force. Not only does it give each person a deep feeling of belonging, but collectively, more prayers are prayed for! Everyone has a unique way of praying to the Lord. We can learn from each other through our different voices when we pray together. It is also an important reminder to keep our hearts open to the needs of others as we care for the wellbeing of our brothers and sisters in Christ at home and around the world.

Together, we are strengthened and blessed through our intentional time with God.

3. Ask Others for Specific Prayer

Sometimes asking for help can be hard to do. We live in a society that celebrates the achievement of doing things on your own or isolating when things become too hard. It’s helpful to remember that asking others for prayers is an opportunity to thank God for blessing us with loved ones we can lean on in times of adversity.

By asking a family member, friend, or church member for a specific prayer, we are reminded that we are not alone. And it helps us grow closer together as a body of believers in Christ.

Men in Kenya pray together

4. Join Us in Prayer

As different crises are occurring at this very moment, we invite you to pray with us on behalf of all those who need God’s loving protection around the world:

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord, we thank you that you are the God of refuge. You are mighty, powerful, righteous, and true. Today, we come to you in prayer asking for your love, protection, and provision.

We know you are the one true source of hope.

Please be a place of refuge and a constant presence of love and support for all those experiencing fear, anxiety, and loneliness. Please care for the physical needs of those who are struggling to provide for their families. Bring peace and healing to those who have lost loved ones or are dealing with life-threatening illnesses.

Please help us come to you for hope and guidance during times of uncertainty. It’s through your grace that we can continue to serve one another in your name no matter the circumstance. We ask for your peace in place of our anxiety.

We pray these things in your heavenly name.

Amen.

Continue praying with us:

4 Ways to Pray for the World

God’s Story: How to Persevere When Life is Hard

What Do Prayer and the Butterfly Effect Have in Common?

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