War is an inevitable and tragic reality in our world today. Whether it is across the world or right on our own soil, wars have been fought throughout the course of history. In the words of Jesus Christin the New Testament, Jesus talks about “wars and rumors of wars” (Matthew 34:6) as signs of the end times.
As Christians, not only should we be aware of this reality but we should also respond to it through prayer. Why? Because we know that through it all, the Lord reigns and that we are to lean on Him even as conflicts and warfare arise.
The following is a list of prayers that you can use in times of war:
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1. A Prayer for God’s Protection
1. A Prayer for God’s Protection
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” - Psalms 46:1
God, we come to you today because we are in need of your protection. Your Word says that “You are our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” O Lord, we recognize that we can turn to you, we can run to you, and we can take refuge in you in times of conflict for You are our safe retreat. You are our strength despite our weaknesses and fears. Overall, You are a very present help in trouble, meaning that You are present right now. You are never off in the distance. No matter the scope of war, no matter the intensity, and no matter its length, you remain with us.
We pray that we would take hold of these truths in our lives and also for those fighting on the frontlines. May our troops remind themselves that the battle belongs to the Lord (1 Samuel 17:47). You lead the way, God. You are our Divine Warrior! As You have protected Your people throughout biblical times and history, we ask for Your protection now for our country, for our soldiers, and for Your church. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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2. A Prayer for God’s Peace
2. A Prayer for God’s Peace
“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world,” - John 16:33.
O Lord, we pray for peace in a time of war. We know that You are in control in the midst of the surrounding chaos. We pray, if possible, for peace between those who are at war with one another and the cessation of hostilities. Moreover, we pray for peace in our souls because You have overcome the world.
True peace is ultimately found in You, Jesus, for You are our Prince of Peace. Even in peaceful times, we can never truly find peace in the manner that You can give. And even when things seem bleak, we stand firm in peace, knowing You are with us. Just as You provided peace in the midst of the storm (Matthew 8:23-27). You provide peace in the here and now. That is something we can take comfort in and rest on today. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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3. A Prayer for God’s Comfort Amid Grief
3. A Prayer for God’s Comfort Amid Grief
“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” - Psalm 34:18
O Lord, Our God, we think about those who have lost their lives in war. We know that war involves tragedy, including death. We mourn with those who have lost friends, family members, and loved ones in combat. God, please comfort them at this time and reassure them that You are there. You are there in the midst of our grief and pain, You comfort us in the face of loss, and You strengthen us moving forward. You are near us because You love us, reminding us that You never leave us or forsake us.
We ask that You heal those grieving from loss. You know exactly how they are feeling and we ask for your comfort at this time. If they don’t know You, I pray that this tumultuous time would also provide an opportunity to share the Good News of the Gospel, so that they would be saved.
Lastly, may we be reminded of the hope we have that transcends death itself, for Christ defeated death once and for all. And one day, You will wipe every tear from our eyes and there will be no more pain and suffering for You are making all things new and we will be with You forever (Revelation 21:3-5). We look forward to that day in Jesus’ name. Amen.
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4. Prayer for God’s Wisdom Among Leaders
4. Prayer for God’s Wisdom Among Leaders
“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” - 1 Timothy 2:1-2
God, we pray for the leaders in our country as they have to navigate through times of war. We know that they are Your delegated authority therefore, we pray that they would follow Your lead. Grant them wisdom that they would make the right decisions in times of conflict and that they would do what is right in Your sight. Let there be no double-mindedness amongst those in leadership, but that they would be resolute in their actions for the good of the country.
Ultimately, You will call them into account for how they lead the country. So we ask that they would lead in a way that glorifies You and we pray that they would know You if they have not been born again. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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5. Prayer for the Demonstration of God’s Grace for Our Enemies
5. Prayer for the Demonstration of God’s Grace for Our Enemies
“Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” - Matthew 5:44
Heavenly Father, we pray for enemies– whether local or abroad. We ask that we take heed the words of Your Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, in which we would love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. God, we know we live in a world that is filled with hostility. Moreover, we know that we live in a world that is hostile to Christians because they are ultimately hostile to You. But we pray for them anyway because we want to honor You above all. We pray for peace among the opposing side when it comes to war. At the same time, we also pray that You would deal with those who remain unrepentant, who remain hellbent in committing evil. Judgment belongs to You, vengeance is reserved for You. All we can do is pray for our enemies and leave the rest in Your hands. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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6. Prayer for God’s Gospel to Be Preached Worldwide
6. Prayer for God’s Gospel to Be Preached Worldwide
“Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season.” - 2 Timothy 4:2
Everlasting God, we pray for the continued spread of the gospel across the world. Even in times of war, we must continue to preach the Good News in season and out of season. Lord, we recognize we live in perilous times, where much violence abounds. We see that throughout history, much war has taken place and much blood has been shed. So much damage has been done and so many lives have been lost.
Moreover, we acknowledge that we are dealing with a spiritual battle raging over our souls each day. Nevertheless, strengthen us in our faith that we would persevere and preach the Gospel despite all opposition. God, since you are with us, then who can be against us? (Romans 8:31) Just as we are to know You, we pray that we would make You known. As Your Word says, “The harvest is plentiful but the laborers are few” (Matthew 9:37), so we ask as Your church be sent forth into the harvest for You are the Lord of the Harvest. We pray this in Jesus’ name, amen.
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Originally published January 06, 2025.
