Prayer Prompt: Pray for Ignite family members who are ill or grieving.

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 (ESV)

Chances are that any given Sunday, the seats in our church hold those who are silently grieving a loss or struggling because of an unknown illness. Sometimes we are made aware of those who are grieving or sick, but many times we have no idea. Suffering is part of the human experience that we each will face no matter how mature we are in our faith, and whether known or unknown, it can be difficult to know how to love those members of our congregation adequately and well.

Oftentimes, it can be easier to deal with our own pain and loss, and more daunting to comfort others. It’s awkward, and we don’t know what to say, and we’re afraid of causing more pain than they are already experiencing. But the Bible is clear that not only do we have hope in Christ, but He has enabled and equipped us to comfort one another.

We can come alongside those who are suffering loss or facing a serious illness by obeying God when He prompts us to reach out and give comfort. Worry less about saying the wrong thing by listening more than speaking. Comfort by serving in practical ways. And most importantly, pray. Prayer is the most powerful and significant source of comfort and strength for those who are suffering loss and illness.

Dear Heavenly Father, give us a wellspring of compassion and concern for those in our Church Body. We ask for Your healing hand to be upon those who are hurting, ill, and grieving. Grant them comfort, strength, and wisdom. Soothe their pain, calm their fears, and pour peace over them. If it’s in Your will, restore their health. If it isn’t Your will that they heal this side of heaven, give them peace and Your strength to endure. Be with their loved ones as they seek Your guidance on loving and caring for loved ones who are seriously ill or injured. You sent Jesus to walk the earth in human form so He understands this broken world and all of the suffering that is part of it. Lord, we trust You with the health of our church members’ bodies, minds, and emotions. We place our worries about them in Your capable hands and acknowledge that You are Sovereign over the lives of all of us. Teach them what You would want them to learn during seasons of health crisis, mourning, or ongoing physical struggles. As our Good Shepherd, lead them beside quiet places, give them rest, renew their strength, and refresh their souls.
In Jesus’ Name, we pray, Amen.


#21dayprayerchallenge #prayer #fasting