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Epikos Online Church LIVE Prayer Topical Helps
Epikos Online Church LIVE Prayer Topical Helps
We receive prayer requests about a variety of topics. These resources are meant to empower you to engage in a quality prayer conversation that includes a warm and empathetic introduction, an authentic and compassionate prayer, and helpful next-step suggestions.
Original document used by permission from Life.Church. Modifications and changes have been made to tailor this resource to Epikos Church.
Navigating Suicide Situations
Navigating Suicide Situations
1. Assess the Risk Level:
Intent: “I want to end my life.”
Plan: “Here’s how I’m going to do it.
Means: “I have access to what I need to do this.”
Timeline: “I have picked out a day and time for this to happen.”
If two or more of the factors above are in place, or if the person says they are in immediate danger of committing suicide, bring someone on staff to get involved. You can also encourage them to reach out to the national suicide hotline at 1-800-273-8255 and/or urge the guest to contact their local emergency services (911).
2. Take Action:
Follow these steps to guide your conversation:
Ask → Notify → Listen → Pray → Resource → Follow up
Ask if the person has ever thought about self-harm or suicide.
Notify your team leader and invite them into the conversation.
Listen to the person’s situation and thank them for their transparency.
Pray with the person. Here are some suggestions of things to pray for:
That they would know how much God loves and values them.
That God would bring them healing, comfort, and hope for the future.
That they would have the strength and courage to seek help when they feel overwhelmed.
That they would know that God is always in control, even if everything else in life seems out of their control.
That today would be the first day of a brand new chapter in their life.
Anything else that God brings into your heart or mind as you’re praying—let the Holy Spirit guide you!
5. Give the person helpful resources. Here are some you can recommend:
Relevant Bible verses, such as Philippians 4:6-7, Isaiah 41:10, Matthew 11:28-30, Psalm 139:14, Jeremiah 17:14, 1 Peter 5:6-7, and Psalm 94:18-19
A YouVersion Bible Plan, such as Overcoming Thoughts of Suicide and Self-Harm or 21 Days to Beat Depression.
You Can Overcome Suicidal Thoughts blog post on Finds.Life.
Other websites, such as To Write Love On Her Arms and Project Semicolon
Resources for U.S. only:
Crisis Text Line: text 741741
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: call 1-800-273-8255 or click the blue “CHAT” button in the top right corner of their website.
Find a local counselor: https://findtreatment.samhsa.gov
6. Ask for the person’s contact info so we can follow up with them.
Sickness and Health Concerns
Sickness and Health Concerns
(see also Cancer Diagnosis and Caregivers)
People experiencing health struggles, either their own or loved ones, are looking for comfort, hope, and peace. Imagine how you would feel in a similar situation, and respond with gentleness and empathy. Pray boldly and in faith.
Possible things to pray for:
Healing for the body, peace for the mind, comfort for the heart
Wisdom for medical professionals
Strength and peace for loved ones
Provision for medical expenses
Deeper faith in the midst of the situation
Verses to share:
“Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits—who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases.” Psalm 103:2-3 NIV
“Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered him punished by God, stricken by him, and afflicted. But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.” Isaiah 53:4-5 NIV
“Heal me, Lord, and I will be healed; save me and I will be saved, for you are the one I praise.” Jeremiah 17:14 NIV
Bible plans:
Encountering God’s Love in Suffering and Sickness - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/1288-encountering-gods-love-in-suffering-sickness
Helpful songs:
Healer by Kari Jobe-https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j2W88vWt30A
Jesus Saves by Jeremy Camp- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jpdYgbMf0L8
God’s Not Dead by Newsboys- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ghC3gqNQJPQ
Cancer Diagnosis
Cancer Diagnosis
Most of the time, the biggest trouble about cancer is the fear and hopelessness it puts into the lives of the person diagnosed and the family/friends. This is what the devil wants us to believe - that there is no way out, and to have us gripped in fear. There is a name that is so much greater than cancer, and that is the name of Jesus. His name is ABOVE all names.
Possible things to pray for:
For God to kill off the cancer cells, and replace them with new healthy ones.
Ask God to not allow any part of this cancer to live or come back into their body.
Strength for God to sustain them during this trying time.
Faith to trust in God. This is a difficult time when many give up, and even blame God.
Verses to share:
“You are my strength, I sing praise to you; you, God, are my fortress, my God on whom I can rely.” Psalm 59:17
“Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.” Psalm 62:6
“Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.” Psalm 55:22
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1
“Heal me, Lord, and I will be healed; save me and I will be saved, for you are the one I praise.” Jeremiah 17:14
Bible Plans:
Encountering God’s Love in Suffering and Sickness - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/1288-encountering-gods-love-in-suffering-sickness
You Remain (My personal Wrestling Match with God) - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/1021-you-remain-devotional
Miracles of Jesus - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/577-miracles-of-jesus
Just Show Up - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/1849-just-show-up-by-kara-tippetts (Great for people who have a friend or loved one who’s been diagnosed.)
Helpful songs:
Our God by Chris Tomlin -https://youtu.be/R-JZ9KsI7YI
Healing Hand of God by Jeremy Camp - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hzfs9B01Qq8
You Make Me Brave by Bethel Music - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_UglO7SGUWk
Caregivers of Those with Illness
Caregivers of Those with Illness
Having the role of providing daily care to a loved one who is physically unable to do so many times has an effect that is too often missed by others. The unusual weight of this daily life can affect a person’s outlook such that they may lose hope of any interactions with others and feelings of being alone in their situation. Slow decline in feelings of purpose is a very common psychological characteristic, so lifting their spirit in our words will become an enabler to their well-being.
Possible things to pray for:
Thankfulness for them and their role in helping their loved one
Thankfulness for them fulfilling God’s word in their role (Gal 6:9-10, Phil 2:4, 1 Tim 5:8)
Patience in allowing God to show them how to handle each day and situation
For others of strength, love, and encouragement to come into their daily walk
Physical strength to pursue what God has for them each day
Verses to share:
“I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength to do his work. He considered me trustworthy and appointed me to serve him” - 1 Timothy 1:12
“He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless. Even youths will become weak and tired, and young men will fall in exhaustion. But those who trust in the lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint. “ - Isaiah 40:29-31 NLT
“Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” – Matthew 11:28-29 NLT
Other Scripture – Romans 8:28, 1 Corinthians 9:26, Matthew 25:40, Lamentations 3:25-26
Bible plan:
List on Purpose - https://www.bible.com/search/plans?q=Purpose
Message Series:
“Overwhelmed” - https://www.life.church/media/overwhelmed/
Other Resources:
The Caregiver - http://www.caregiverresourcecenter.com/the_caregiver.htm
Helpful songs:
I Am Not Alone by Kari Jobe - https://youtu.be/Ow4OfW4DP9s
Beautiful One by Tim Hughes - https://youtu.be/v9bC9CRv9oU
Nothing is Impossible by Planetshakers - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wm0O_1Xqn5o
Broken Relationships
Broken Relationships
People experiencing broken relationships are often in a great deal of pain. Express empathy and sensitivity for their situation. Remember that God ultimately wants people in healthy relationships, and his ultimate goal is for our restoration to himself, and also to others whenever possible.
Possible things to pray for:
Wisdom to know what steps to take
Clear communication between everyone involved
A godly perspective on one another and the situation
Strength to forgive and to love one another in a healthy way
A breaking down of any walls that have been built between them
Verses to share:
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” Psalm 147:3 NIV
“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Ephesians 4:2-3 NIV
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. “
Colossians 3:13-15 NIV
Bible plans:
Building Healthy Relationships - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/1377-building-healthy-relationships-time-of-grace
Experiencing Hope and Healing in a Fallen World - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/506-experiencing-hope-and-healing
Helpful songs:
Touch the Sky by Hillsong United - https://youtu.be/y1RQciil7B0
Arms Wide Open by Misty Edwards -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5o08W3Q0B3U
Greater by MercyMe - https://youtu.be/GXI0B4iMLuU
Struggling Marriages
Struggling Marriages
Struggles in marriage come from a very broad range of circumstances, so starting to find cause or fault with a submitted situation can create more strain in the exchange. Instead praying for them to allow God to bring resolution by knowing the specifics and dealing with the heart at the source is where we find the power of the Holy Spirit that we just won’t have. Showing care and encouragement to help them find reconciliation through the strength of forgiveness and unconditional love is what we seek to help them find.
Possible things to pray for:
Heart and eyes to see the other person through God’s eyes
Willingness to forgive and seek reconciliation (restoration)
Allowing God to show them where He wants to see a change in them
Protection from ungodly influences that strain the marriage and trust
Patience as God grows the marriage to where He wants it to be
Verses to share:
“Jesus looked at them intently and said, ‘Humanly speaking, it is impossible. But with God everything is possible’. Matthew 19:26 NLT
“Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace.” Ephesians 4:2-3 NIV
“Give honor to marriage, and remain faithful to one another in marriage. God will surely judge people who are immoral and those who commit adultery.” Hebrews 13:4 NLT
Other: Col 3:13-15, Matt 7:7-8, Matt 6:33, John 10:10
Bible plans:
From This Day Forward - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/1239-craig-groeschels-from-this-day-forward
Relationship Goals - https://my.bible.com/reading-plans/14186-relationship-goals
(Also search YouVersion Plans - Marriage)
Helpful songs:
How He Loves Us by David Crowder Band- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qDSE438XMaQ
Break Every Chain by Will Reagan -
Addiction to Pornography
Addiction to Pornography
People struggling with porn struggle with embarrassment, guilt, self-worth, their own relationships, their walk with the Lord if they are Christians, and openness to seek help. If you cannot relate- be careful not to “tell them what to do”. If you can relate- share that you have been there. They need to know there is not only life past this event, but freedom from the bondage.
Possible things to pray for:
Forgiveness- for themselves, and asking forgiveness from those in their family/spouse, etc.
Willingness to seek help, (wise counsel)
Repentance and then openness for the Holy Spirit to break this stronghold.
Willingness to take preventative action: support group, accountability, internet controls
Verses to share:
So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. John 8:36 NIV
Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. 2 Corinthians 3:17 NIV
And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7 NIV
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2 NIV
No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it. 1 Corinthians 10:13 NIV
Bible plans:
Protecting Your Marriage, Pornography https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/1435-infidelity-protecting-your-marriage-pornography
Thirty-One Days of Healing and Recovery https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/163-thirty-one-days-of-healing-and-recovery
Altar Ego http://resources.lifechurch.tv/altar-ego
Other Resources:
Fight by Craig Groeschel - http://amzn.com/0310333741
Every Man’s Battle by Stephen Arterburn - http://amzn.com/0307457974
Covenant Eyes (App and for PC) - http://www.covenanteyes.com
XXXChurch - (a lot of resources) - http://xxxchurch.com
The Dirty Little Secret: Uncovering the Truth Behind Porn by Craig Gross - http://amzn.com/031027107X
Dirty Girls Ministries - http://dirtygirlsministries.com/ - a ministry to help women experience freedom from pornography and sexual addiction.
RTribe Accountability App - http://www.rtribe.org/ (This requires someone else to be accountable with, so if the person needs a partner, have them ask us about that.)
Avenue Works - http://avenue.works This organization helps men who have struggled with infidelity and/or pornography and offers support to women whose husbands are in that battle.
Helpful Songs
By Your Side by Tenth Avenue North - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u9N7dhmdC60
Strong Enough by Matthew West - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h_gCfA0Dmgg
Financial Struggles
Financial Struggles
People faced with financial difficulties often experience fear, guilt, uncertainty, and desperation. They may doubt God's goodness and promises. They may be seeking direction, hope, and peace. Imagine how you would feel in a financial crisis, and respond with gentleness and empathy. Pray boldly and in faith, confident that God promised to provide for His children.
Possible things to pray for:
Provision for basic needs of food, shelter, clothing, and utilities
Wisdom for income-producing activities, debt repayment, budgeting, sources of community assistance
Faith to trust in God's promises to meet needs and provide guidance
Thankfulness that all of our resources belong to the Lord; we are managers of them, but not owners
The Holy Spirit to reveal the work God may be doing through this crisis (ie: refocus our hearts on heavenly treasure)
Forgiveness for financial carelessness, if they acknowledge that
Verses to share:
"And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19 ESV
"Then Jesus said to his disciples: “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. For life is more than food, and the body more than clothes. Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds!" Luke 12:22-24 NIV
"Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7 NLT
"If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind." James 1:5-6 ESV
"The Lord will open to you his good treasury, the heavens, to give the rain to your land in its season and to bless all the work of your hands. And you shall lend to many nations, but you shall not borrow." Deuteronomy 28:12 ESV
"Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. And thereby put me to the test, says the Lord of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need." Malachi 3:10 ESV
"Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine." Proverbs 3:9-10 NIV
Bible plans:
Debt: A Biblical Exploration. https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/118-debt- a-biblical-exploration?id=118-debt-a-biblical-exploration
Your Money Counts. https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/11712-your-money-counts
Helpful songs:
In Better Hands Now by Natalie Grant - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5hyefo5DXLE
Job Difficulties
Job Difficulties
With the average tenure in a job being less than 5 years, so many factors play into why that change occurs; positive and negative. Either way, these factors drive people to seek wisdom and help to transition to a new path. When praying for them, broaden their vision to see that God’s plan for the faithful brings greater things to them than they may have the ability to see during these confusing times (Ecc. 3:11). Also emphasize the importance of surrounding themselves with others in faith and not stay alone (1 Peter 5:8).
Possible things to pray for:
Strength to let go of past feelings
Patience to allow employers to work through decisions and for their favor
Willingness to see rejections as times of learning and growing
Energy to keep the search moving
For others of strength to come into their daily walk
Verses to share:
“Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God’s work from beginning to end.” Ecclesiastes 3:11 NLT
“But forget all that— it is nothing compared to what I am going to do. For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland. “ Isaiah 43:18-19 NLT
“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7 NLT
Other Scripture – 1 Cor. 13:12, 1 Peter 5:6-7, James 5:10-11, Psalm 73:26, Psalm 22:24, 2 Cor 12:9-10, Jeremiah 29:11
Bible plans:
Why Did I Lose My Job If God Loves Me? - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/1012-why-did-i-lose-my-job-if-god-loves-me
Our Daily Bread: Picking Up the Pieces After Job Loss - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/732-picking-up-the-pieces-after-job-loss
Helpful songs:
My Savior My God by Aaron Shust - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=96P0bwvpbk4
Trust In You by Lauren Daigle - https://youtu.be/qv-SXz_exKE
God I Look to You by Jenn Johnson - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CR5IoWH9OiI
Mental Health Issues (Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar)
Mental Health Issues (Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar)
People afflicted with mental illness, and their loved ones, are looking for comfort, hope, understanding, and peace. They may experience hopelessness, loneliness, and uncontrollable emotions. They may be suicidal. Self-harm (cutting) might occur. "Bipolar" or manic-depressive disorder, is a diagnosis indicating extreme mood swings between severe depression and mania (high energy, giddy, compulsive decision making). Depression/anxiety may be situational or chronic. Some cases are due to chemical imbalances in the brain. Other situations are due to guilt related to sin, bitterness, or unforgiveness. Psychiatric medication may be required, however, some are using chemicals to suppress unresolved emotions. Yet, expecting all people with mental illness to overcome it with God alone is similar to expecting a diabetic or heart patient to avoid medication.
Pray for discernment before answering the prayer request of a person dealing with mental illness, so that you will have the power to decipher the nature of the problem and respond appropriately.
Possible things to pray for:
Healing for the mind, comfort for the heart, proper response to anxious thoughts
Wisdom for medical professionals-proper medication, behavioral therapy
Strength and peace for loved ones; insight for them to have empathy for the person with the mental health challenge; community support
Forgiveness of sin, relief from guilt and shame (IF the person admits to sinful behavior that preceded the depression/anxiety).
Deeper faith to believe God's promises of provision, protection and guidance; to trust in the character of God to know their needs
Power for the person to voice their cares to the Lord and leave them in His capable hands
Avoid judging them for feeling sad, ungrateful, etc. They can not just "snap out of it"; they may identify that they "shouldn't" be feeling the way they are feeling.
Verses to share:
"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 NIV
"You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance." Psalm 32:7 NIV
“Heal me, Lord, and I will be healed; save me and I will be saved, for you are the one I praise.” Jeremiah 17:14 NIV
"Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." 1 Peter 5:6-7 NIV
"The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." 2 Corinthians 10:4-5 NIV
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 NIV
"Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God." Psalm 42:11
"When I said, “My foot is slipping,” your unfailing love, Lord, supported me. When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy." Psalm 94:18-19
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. Psalm 139:14 NIV
Bible plans:
The Overwhelmed Challenge - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/905-the-overwhelmed-challenge
Depression - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/119-depression
21 Days to Beat Depression - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/821-21-days-to-beat-depression
Anchored: Through Deep Waters - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/702-anchored-through-deep-waters
Other Resources:
Suicide Hotline (U.S.) at 1-800-273-8255.
International Suicide Hotlines: http://www.suicide.org/international-suicide-hotlines.html
Depression, Suicide, Eating disorders: Heart Support http://www.heartsupport.com
To Write Love on Her Arms: Help for people struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury, and suicide. http://twloha.com/
Project Semicolon http://www.projectsemicolon.com/
Helpful Songs:
Oceans (Where Feet May Fail) by Hillsong United- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dy9nwe9_xzw
From the Inside Out by Hillsong United- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZ-fghqc8Oo
Hello, My Name Is by Matthew West- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZuJWQzjfU3o
Eating Disorders and Weight Loss
Eating Disorders and Weight Loss
People (men and women) who are struggling with eating disorders face daily challenges. Often the root of their battle comes from a deeper emotional pain, and the eating disorder is one manifestation of that pain. They may deal with anorexia, bulimia, binging, obesity, food addiction, or other types of food-related challenges.
Possible things to pray for:
A life-changing encounter with the powerful love of God
That they would gain a clear understanding of their identity in Christ and see themselves as God sees them
God’s truth to overcome any lies from the enemy that they believe about themselves or their situation
Willingness to open up and ask for help from someone they trust
That they would find satisfaction in their relationship with Jesus rather than meeting it through eating or food avoidance.
Verses to share:
“Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.” 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” Psalm 139:14
“Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. Now I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life, so that you and your descendants might live! You can make this choice by loving the lord your God, obeying him, and committing yourself firmly to him. This is the key to your life. And if you love and obey the lord, you will live long in the land the lord swore to give your ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.” Deuteronomy 30:19-20
“In your strength I can crush an army; with my God I can scale any wall.” 2 Samuel 22:30
“The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.” 1 Corinthians 10:13
“But whenever someone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord—who is the Spirit —makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image.” 2 Corinthians 3:16-18
Bible reading plans:
Made to Crave - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/419-made-to-crave-21-day-challenge
Live Out Your Faith with Fitness: https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/472-live-out-your-faith- with-fitness
The Weight Loss Scriptures Devotional: https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/680-the-weight- loss-scriptures
God's Prescription for a Healthy Life: https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/922-gods- prescription-for-a-healthy-life
Other Resources:
Eating Disorder Hope - http://www.eatingdisorderhope.com/recovery
Choose Life Now: Submit your body to God and develop a lifestyle of health. http://www.choose-life-now.com/
Take Back Your Temple - Weight loss encouragement website - http://takebackyourtemple.com/
Helpful songs:
Oceans (Where Feet May Fail) by Hillsong United- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dy9nwe9_xzw
From the Inside Out by Hillsong United- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZ-fghqc8Oo
Hello, My Name Is by Matthew West- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZuJWQzjfU3o
Infertility, Miscarriage, Neonatal Loss
Infertility, Miscarriage, Neonatal Loss
It’s a frustrating and painful thing not to be able to conceive easily. It can be devastating to experience a miscarriage or the loss of a newborn. People going through any of these are often confused, sad, and angry. They may wonder what is wrong with them and why God is letting this happen. It’s important in your response that you are sensitive without offer pat or cliché answers.
Possible things to pray for:
God’s comfort to cover their heart and spirit
Trust in His timing and guidance (specifically for those experiencing infertility)
Healing of their bodies, that God would allow everything to function properly
That God would bring people around them to support and care for them
Verses to share:
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” Psalms 147:3
“Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.” Romans 12:12
“Brothers and sisters, as an example of patience in the face of suffering, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. 1As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.” James 5:10-11
Bible reading plans:
Infertility Encouragement from Sarah’s Laughter - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/1221-infertility-encouragement-from-sarahs-laughter
A Seed of Hope During Infertility - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/858-a-seed-of-hope-during-infertility
Other Resources:
Hannah’s Prayer Ministries - http://www.hannah.org/
Helpful songs:
Flawless by MercyMe- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IoOPsGDZdnM
How Can It Be by Lauren Daigle- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6UXn_OuJkvE
Trading My Sorrows by Darrel Evans- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W1cv1tzzgbk
People in Abusive Situations
People in Abusive Situations
People experiencing abuse in relationships, be it mental, emotional, or physical, often feel afraid, desperate, and hopeless. They need peace, hope, love, understanding. Be gentle and empathetic as you talk and pray with them, knowing that God is with them. Remember we aren’t counselors, and we shouldn’t focus on convincing them to break off the relationship, but we can pray with a boldness that God will work in their situations.
Possible things to pray for:
For their protection
For courage to ask for help, and for the wisdom to know whom to ask
To see themselves in the light of God’s love and truth
To recognize and reject any lies they’ve been believing about themselves or the situation
To experience God’s love, power, healing, and freedom
For God to give them the strength to forgive
Verses to share:
“Lord, You will establish peace for us, for You have also done all our works in us.” Isaiah 26:12
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” Psalm 147:3 NIV
“You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.” Isaiah 26:3
“The Lord gives righteousness and justice to all who are treated unfairly.” Psalm 103:6 NLT
Bible reading plans:
Gospel and Sexual Abuse - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/1685-gospel-and-sexual-abuse
Experiencing Hope and Healing in a Fallen World - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/506-experiencing-hope-and-healing
Helpful songs:
Because he Lives by Matt Maher- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PBvU7arNhQs
Forgiveness by Matthew West https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oIbCpy0CQEo
Wake by Hillsong United- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=io2WOQ-3aVs
Grief
Grief
There are many ways people can be in grief and they all involve the same thing, loss. Most likely it will be the loss of a loved one but often it can involve a job or they could be going through a divorce or some other personal tragedy. The tricky thing in dealing with grief is to help them get through whatever stage they may be in. There are several stages to grief (some places say 7 others say 4) and they are not always linear. Often a person will cycle back to an earlier stage to resolve it. For a more detailed description of the stages please see the Web Resources.
Possible things to pray for:
Pray for them to experience God’s comfort.
Pray for people to be available to them to talk through their grief
Encourage them to keep faith in God and what he can do.
Pray that God will help them with strength and courage to make it through this time.
Let them know that God does care for them.
Verses to share:
Matthew 5:4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”(NIV)
2 Corinthians 1:3-4 “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”(NIV)
Isaiah 41:10 “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.”(NIV)
Psalm 23:4 “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”(NIV)
Psalm 34:18 (NIV)“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
Bible plans:
Grief Bites: Hope for the Holidays (dealing with grief during the holidays): https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/1964-grief-bites-hope-for-the-holidays
Grief Survivor: https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/1218-grief-survivor
Other Resources:
http://lynndove.com/2013/12/06/25-encouraging-scripture-verses-for-those-who-are-grieving/ (Explains Grief and has many scriptures to share)
Helpful songs:
Holy Spirit by Francesca Battistelli- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SS5S8Unvm48
Forever Reign by Hillsong United- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3f3sNiYpuF4
I Surrender by Hillsong United- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=klj5xQf6tWo
New Followers of Christ
New Followers of Christ
How beautiful it is to see another person accepting Christ as their Lord and Savior. Those requesting prayer for guidance as a new follower of Christ may not yet fully understand what has happened and what comes next. Here is where we come in! We are not here to give them all the answers they are looking for (only God is able to do that) but we can help them during their initial transition into new followers of Christ.
Possible things to pray for:
Guidance as they begin to read the Bible
Finding a church/ a community of faith
Resisting worldly temptations
Discovering who they are in Christ
Learning how to pray
Dealing with fear of what others may think of them
Verses to share:
"Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come." (2 Corinthians 5:17)
"Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand." (Isaiah 41:10)
"Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me." (John 14:6)
"And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28)
"For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them."(Ephesians 2:10)
"For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 6:23)
"Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them, for the LORD your God is the one who goes with you He will not fail you or forsake you." (Deuteronomy 31:6)
Bible plans:
Transformed: https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/1387-transformed
This Was Then, This is Now: https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/1715-josh-wilson-the-overflow-devo
What Now?: https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/2413-what-now-new-believer-reading-plan-for-teenagers
The Messiah: https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/2467-the-messiah
Essential Scripture for 30 Days: https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/2453-essential-scripture-for-30-days
God Revealed: https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/3036-god-revealed-a-new-testament-journey
Additional Resources:
God's Chisel- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AhfUzodLRvk
Helpful songs:
What You Want by Tenth Avenue North- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g7tfMno9uHQ
The Very Next Thing by Casting Crowns- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PbCqoFldAmI
One Step Away by Casting Crowns- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hktP9LHaRI0
Survivors of Abuse
Survivors of Abuse
People that have been sexually abused many times feel guilt and/or shame. They may also feel like they somehow contributed to what happened to them. They often feel lonely and feel that they have no one to talk to. Avoid saying that you understand what they're going through, especially if you have never had the experience. Instead, say "I can only imagine how you are feeling." We need to show compassion and support. Remind them that God sees them as He created them to be. Don't pity them, but rather respect them and empathize. Let them know their emotions are valid, and that it's important to recognize them (anger, fear, loneliness, shame, guilt, sadness) in order to heal.
Resist the temptation to urge them to forgive and forget. If they want you to pray for forgiveness, then include that in your prayer.
Pray for:
The Holy Spirit to strengthen them.
God to show them who they are in Christ.
Against self-condemnation and self-hatred.
The love of Jesus to be manifest in and through them.
Spiritual freedom. Free of guilt and shame.
The spirit of loneliness to flee.
God's peace and joy.
Restoration.
Healing of their body and mind.
Verses to share:
Psalm 9:9 The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.
Psalm 10:17 You, Lord, hear the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry,
Matthew 11:28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Romans 8:35-39 - Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written: "For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered." No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Ephesians 1:4 - For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight
Philippians 4:13 - I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.
Psalm 147:3 - He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”
Isaiah 26:3 - “You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You."
Psalm 103:6 - “The Lord gives righteousness and justice to all who are treated unfairly.”
Bible Reading Plans
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