Intercessory prayers are a powerful way to pray on behalf of others, bringing their needs before God. Whether during a church service, a small group meeting, or personal prayer time, these prayers of intercession lift up people and situations in need of God’s grace, healing, and guidance. Here are some sample prayers of intercession that can be used for various circumstances.
1. Intercession for the Church
“Gracious Father,
We pray for Your Church around the world. Strengthen Your people to stand firm in faith and boldly proclaim Your truth. Bless pastors, priests, and church leaders with wisdom and perseverance as they shepherd their flocks. Unite us in love and purpose, that we may reflect Your love to a world in need. Let the Church be a light in dark places, a refuge for the hurting, and a source of hope for all. May Your will be done through us, Lord. Amen.”
2. Intercession for the Sick
“Dear Lord,
We lift up all those who are sick and suffering today. For those battling illness, pain, or disease, we ask for Your healing touch. Restore their health, give them strength, and surround them with Your peace. We pray for the medical professionals caring for them—grant them wisdom, compassion, and endurance. Comfort the families and loved ones of those who are ill, and let them feel Your presence in this difficult time. In Your mercy, bring healing and hope. Amen.”
3. Intercession for World Leaders
“Lord of all nations,
We pray for the leaders of the world. Guide them with wisdom, compassion, and humility as they make decisions that affect the lives of many. May they seek peace and justice, and may they lead with integrity and a heart for the common good. Help them to govern in a way that promotes human dignity and fosters unity. Let Your will be done in the halls of power, and may Your justice prevail in all the earth. Amen.”
4. Intercession for Peace
“Heavenly Father,
We bring before You all the places in the world where there is conflict, war, and violence. We pray for peace, Lord, where there is turmoil. Calm the hearts of those who seek to do harm, and soften the hearts of leaders so that they may choose the path of reconciliation and justice. We pray for all who suffer as a result of violence and war—bring them comfort, safety, and hope. Help us all to be peacemakers in our homes, communities, and the world. Amen.”
5. Intercession for Families
“Lord,
We pray for families everywhere. Strengthen the bonds of love between parents, children, and extended family members. For those families facing hardship—whether it be financial struggles, illness, or emotional pain—provide them with comfort and relief. Heal broken relationships, and bring peace to homes where there is conflict. May all families grow in love and unity, and may they find support within their communities and Your Church. Amen.”
6. Intercession for Those in Need
“Compassionate God,
We lift up those who are struggling with poverty, homelessness, and hunger. For those without homes, provide shelter. For those without enough to eat, provide food. For those without hope, provide comfort and a way forward. Use us, Lord, as Your hands and feet to meet the needs of the poor and marginalized in our communities. Open our eyes to see the suffering around us and give us the compassion to act. Amen.”
7. Intercession for the Persecuted
“Dear Lord,
We remember all those who are being persecuted for their faith. We pray for Christians around the world who are facing imprisonment, discrimination, and violence because of their love for You. Strengthen their faith and give them courage in the face of danger. Protect them, Lord, and provide for their needs. May they feel Your presence with them, and may their testimony inspire others to turn to You. Help us never to take our religious freedom for granted, and show us how we can support our brothers and sisters in Christ. Amen.”
8. Intercession for the Grieving
“God of Comfort,
We lift up to You those who are grieving the loss of loved ones. Surround them with Your love, and give them peace that surpasses all understanding. In their sorrow, may they find hope in the promise of eternal life. Help them to feel Your presence in the midst of their pain, and send caring friends and family members to support them in their time of loss. Walk with them through the valley of the shadow of death, and bring them healing and strength. Amen.”
9. Intercession for Children and Youth
“Father,
We pray for children and youth in our communities and around the world. Protect them from harm, guide them in the paths of righteousness, and help them to grow in wisdom and grace. For those who are vulnerable, neglected, or abused, we ask that You intervene and bring them to safety. Bless parents, teachers, and caregivers with patience and understanding as they nurture the next generation. May our children come to know Your love and live out their lives in service to You. Amen.”
10. Intercession for Spiritual Revival
“Lord of Renewal,
We pray for spiritual revival in our hearts, our church, and our community. Stir within us a deep desire to know You more and to live according to Your will. Renew our passion for sharing the Gospel and for serving those in need. Help us to break free from complacency and to be bold in our faith. Send Your Holy Spirit to revive us, strengthen us, and guide us. May we shine Your light in the world, and may many come to know You through our witness. Amen.”
These prayers of intercession can be used during church services, prayer groups, or personal devotional times. They help lift up the needs of others before God and reflect a heart of compassion and care for the world around us.