Pray for Nigeria

March 18, 2021 by Jennifer Hong 1 Comment

We are praying for nations during our Do Not Depart missions month “So That the World May Know,” and today we pray for Nigeria. To gain some perspective on how to pray, I interviewed a good friend who serves as a long-term missionary teaching health care providers in Nigeria while her husband teaches at a local seminary.

Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa, is also one of the most linguistically diverse countries in the world. Nigeria is home to more than 250 ethnic groups speaking more than 500 different native languages. Both Christianity and Islam have growth substantially in recent decades, with Nigeria generally divided into the predominantly Muslim North and the predominantly Christian South.

Praise God for the Church in Nigeria

As we pray for Nigeria this week, we begin by rejoicing in the Nigerian Church. My friend tells me that she sees in her Nigerian brothers and sisters in Christ a unique perseverance and strength. She sees that their faith is not easily shaken by the difficulties and heartache of life.

Nigerian Christians are undertaking a massive translation effort. Through the National Bible Translation Trust, Nigerians are currently working towards the translation of the Bible into 250 additional languages. However, many of these projects have encountered roadblocks during the pandemic. Pray for the furtherance of Bible translation in Nigeria and for safe ways for translators to gather and collaborate. Pray also for the safety and protection of pastors and other Believers supporting Nigerian Christians from Muslim people groups, particularly in Northern Nigeria.

Pray for the Safety of Nigerians

According to BBC reporting this month, more than 800 children have been taken in four mass school kidnappings in the past 3 months. Pray for their protection — physical, spiritual, and emotional, and for their safe return to their families. My friend tells me small-scale, roadside kidnappings are also so common that “fear of kidnapping” is a common every-day worry of her husband’s seminary students.

Pray for Nigeria’s Girls and Women

The rates of teenage marriage are particularly high in Northern Nigeria and in more rural areas; the median age of marriage in some regions is 15 years of age according to a 2018 Demographic and Health Survey, with more than 40% of Nigerian women marrying before age 18. Among married women, 80% have risk factors for high-risk births. The report also reflects normalization of “wife beating,” with 20-30% of women reporting belief that it is okay for a husband to beat his wife in circumstances such a burned dinner, a disagreement, or turning down sex. Pray for God’s hand of mercy in protecting women in Nigeria and worldwide and for healing of the factors underlying violence.

Join Me in Prayer

Lord, may Your name be glorified in Nigeria among every people group and in every language.

Strengthen and encourage your Church there. May they treasure Your Word and increasingly have the Bible translated into every language. May truth, love, and grace spread across the land, igniting hearts for You.

“…So that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.” (Ephesians 3:17-19)

Free the children and adults held captive in Nigeria today, releasing them to their families and healing their wounds. Protect the vulnerable, and bring justice. May each man, woman, and child come to see him or herself and those around them as Your image bearers.

“But let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.” (Amos 5:24)

“Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” (Ephesians 3:20-21)

As you pray for Nigeria, check out this beautiful recording of Mai Taimako Na (My Helper) by Nigerian worship musician Solomon Lange, who sings in Hausa, a language of Northern Nigeria, with English subtitles.

Three Ways to Pray While Waiting

April 14, 2020 by Jaime Hilton 1 Comment

This last weekend we celebrated the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

We know that Christ, being raised from the dead, will never die again; death no longer has dominion over him. Romans 6:9

My children are at a tender age of early understanding so we spent the week, Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday, lighting candles, reading, and remembering the stories of Holy Week, leading up to the crucifixion. Good Friday was a beautiful celebration, full of meaningful conversations. Our homebound Sunday service was simple, but rich and bright. But Saturday, the day between death and life, felt strangely quiet, almost out of place, with nothing to really do.

What happened on the day Jesus was dead in the tomb?

Josh Martin, author of Saturday Nothing, writes,

“It was the most agonizing day in human history. Picture hundreds of men and women lying in bed battling tears, staring at their ceiling, wishing the day before was all a bad dream. … Fog filled the air and the heart. The pain felt personal, even more than it should. ”

I can almost imagine the overwhelming sense of confusion accompanying the grief of losing their beloved leader, teacher, and friend to a Roman cross. What would happen next? Where would they go? It was a Sabbath. There was simply nothing to do but wait.

Take Heart with 3 Ways to Pray

This month on the blog we are exploring ways we can respond to the trouble and suffering in the world, specifically as it relates to the current crisis of Covid19. What can we do while we’re stuck at home with nothing to really do but wait?

Scripture teaches us that God is patient and that his patience has a purpose.

“The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9

While He is capable of working things instantly He chooses instead to use time, giving us the opportunity to partner with Him.

“Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.” Romans 5:3-5

He works within us, transforming our hearts to be more like His.

As we shelter at home, waiting for life to get back to normal, we have a chance to check our hearts and align ourselves with the work God is doing. #takeheartClick To Tweet

Pray Humbly

Since the first time the snake whispered doubt in Eve’s ear, we humans have felt that we can make the best choices for ourselves. We think we know good from evil, right from wrong, but the Bible says we are like grass that is here for just a short time (Isaiah 40:7, 1 Peter 1:24). We don’t know what is best for ourselves, let alone what is right for the whole world. So we pray with humility, putting God in His proper place as King of the Universe and remembering that we are only exalted by His mercy.

“O LORD, make me know my end

and what is the measure of my days;

let me know how fleeting I am!” Psalm 39:4

Pray with Trust

As we remind ourselves of our place in the world, we can rest in the knowledge that God is good, He knows our needs, and he wants to provide for us. He is trustworthy.

“For all the nations of the world seek after these things, and your Father knows that you need them. Instead, seek his kingdom, and these things will be added to you. ‘Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.’” Luke 12:30-32

Pray Simply

Jesus taught his disciples to pray like children speaking to their Father who loves them. It’s not about putting on a big show or using fancy words. It’s not even about knowing what to ask for because He already knows what we need (Matthew 6:8). Instead, our prayers should be about positioning our hearts to see what He sees, and to want what He wants.

“Pray then like this: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” Matthew 6:9-10

Whether we want it or not, we are in a season of waiting.

“After Jesus defeated death and left the tomb, the first thing He did was visit His followers. He found them together in an upper room…they gathered, prayed, and hoped recklessly.” (Saturday Nothing)

We may not be able to gather, but we can pray and hope recklessly. It might look like nothing to us, but God is always working in the waiting.

God is working in the waiting. Pray humbly, simply, and trust. #takeheartClick To Tweet

When You Don’t Know What to Say, Say This

February 13, 2020 by Lisa Burgess 12 Comments

When you don’t know what to say, say blessings from scripture. Philippians 1:9-11 is a prayer for love, wisdom, and hope.

When Words Don’t Come

I didn’t know what to say.

I have friends who live in a special apartment complex in my city. They are there for different reasons: some are physically disabled, some are mentally disabled, some are financially unstable.

Their needs are varied. And their needs are usually great. They face things daily that I haven’t faced at all.

So when we deliver meals to them on Wednesday nights, they’ll occasionally want prayer.

And when they do? I often don’t know what to pray for them.

Try a Benediction

One of my friends there was slow coming to her door last week. She heard us knock and asked us to wait. When she finally opened the door, we could tell she was distressed.

She shared briefly what was going on, but she was too exhausted to explain it all. I asked if we could pray for her, and she said of course.

But what could I say? There she sat in pain in her wheelchair with more needs than resources. And I was supposed to offer what?

I wasn’t sure of her circumstances. I didn’t have time to think it through. I didn’t want to sound trite or promise something I couldn’t guarantee.

When we don’t have words to pray—for whatever the reason—we can always pray a benediction.

Benedictions are short blessings often recited over a congregation at the end of a worship service. They remind us to stay expectant for God’s grace. (Read an encouraging article here about 5 Reasons to Recover Benedictions at Church.)

Offer Hope through Philippians 1:9-11

Every Sunday morning with my church, Pastor Pat closes out our service with these words written by the apostle Paul 2,000 years ago to the church at Philippi.

We open our hands and hearts to receive this:

“And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.”
Philippians 1:9-11

These words are embedded now in my soul. Our memory group at Do Not Depart (Hide His Word) recently memorized all of Philippians 1. These words keep chasing me.

So when I don’t know what to pray, I know I can safely pray these things over anybody, in any circumstance:

I pray that they will:

Know love, more and more
Gain knowledge and use wisdom to make the next right decisions
Be a positive influence among their friends and family
Stay expectant for a brighter future
Experience the love of Jesus for the glory of God

When I prayed for my friend, I didn’t use those exact words. I didn’t go through a checklist in my mind.

But because I’ve heard these truths spoken over me so often and because I’ve used them so much over myself in memorization and meditation, the Spirit breathes them out when I need to share them with others.

I didn’t solve my friend’s problems that day. I didn’t change her circumstances. I had so little to contribute.

But at least in offering a blessing of hope, I hope she felt more loved and less alone.

Find Your Blessing to Give

Is there a passage of God’s love that you can give to others? Find a prayer to say, if you haven’t yet. Our series this month here at Do Not Depart is a great starting point to find a blessing you can pray over others.

It will free you to pray confidently with others regardless of circumstances.
It will bless others with words of truth and hope and love spoken to God on their behalf.
And it will please God that you are blessing others for Him.

It’s what He wants His kids to do for each other.

When you don’t know what to say, say this. See these words of love, wisdom, and hope from Philippians 1. #Benedictions

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Do you have a favorite scripture you pray for others, with others? Please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments.

Want to Be Present? Plug in with Prayer!

December 15, 2017 by Lisa Burgess 8 Comments

Offer your presence through prayer. You’ll connect more with others and plug in to God’s presence, too.

“Seek the LORD and his strength; seek his presence continually!”
1 Chronicles 16:11

Under the Surface

We walked together past the tables of free food, putting this or that in her cart, depending on what she needed. Small talk. Smiles. Casual friendship.

Until the car. We loaded her groceries in the trunk and I asked Betty how I could pray for her. This is the moment it usually happens. This is when people get real. Get personal. Get serious.

Tears bubbled up in Betty’s eyes. And she told me about her daughter. She was back on the streets. Betty didn’t know where. Her heart was breaking. She wanted prayers.

What do we want God to do? This question connects us to each other.

Whose Face Pops Up?

As we each prepare for Christmas, ironically we can get disconnected from God, from each other. The distractions, the lack of time, the lack of energy can break the very bonds that we want to strengthen.

There’s not enough, we think.

But those very cords—the fraying ones with tattered ends that don’t seem enough—are often the ones God uses to draw us in closer. Because of our needs, we pull together.

Close your eyes. Does a face pop up in your mind’s vision? A name? Can you see the image of God stamped on this person, looking back at you?

When the grungy shepherds first came upon baby Jesus’s face that night long ago, did they see God in His tiny eyes? When they praised God for this miracle, did they feel empowered? (Read Luke 2:8-20)

To reconnect with others and with God this Christmas, let’s look for Jesus in every set of eyes we meet. His presence is everywhere we are.

Really see others these next few weeks. Listen to them. Talk with them. And when you can, ask what they need prayers for. When you find out their God-needs, you’ll often find God Himself rising up in you to connect with them.

“The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.”
Psalm 145:18

When we plug in more fully with others, we become more present to the power of God ourselves. The portion of God in them combines with the portion of God in us. His glory is reflected brighter through our unity. (Read John 17:21-23)

In His Presence

After Betty and I prayed together that Saturday morning, we were bonded. Even though I haven’t seen her again, I think about her. And I think about her daughter.

I watch in my circles of ministry for a daughter who is distressed and who has a mom named Betty.

We never know how or when God will place people in our paths when we are praying for them.

Just as His presence is ever with us, He can put us in the presence of other people when we least expect it.

Use this guide to record whose presence you see this week. Write down names and scriptures as they come to mind. Pray for God’s presence to be visible in their lives as He is in yours.

Additionally, you can print and give away these scriptures from our “A Verse a Day–Personalized Gift Version” article. Tuck these verses inside Christmas cards or on coffee counters or in waiting rooms to remind others that God has come.

And to remind others that God is still here. His presence is always a present.

“Never stop praying, especially for others. Always pray by the power of the Spirit. Stay alert and keep praying for God’s people.”
Ephesians 6:18 (CEV)

Whose face is popping up in your mind? Do you know what to pray for them? Please share in the comments.

Want more presence this Christmas? Give your presence through prayer and receive God’s presence. #ChristmasPresence

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Raising Kids Who Guard Their Minds in an Unguarded World

July 11, 2017 by Guest Post Leave a Comment

We are delighted to welcome former Do Not Depart team member Teri Lynne Underwood back as our guest this month. Her new book [amazon_link id=”076421960X” target=”_blank” ]Praying for Girls[/amazon_link] releases next week: “Covering five vital areas of a girl’s life–her identity, heart, mind, relationships, and purpose–this easy-to-use book is ideal for anyone who feels intimidated or uncertain about what to pray for the girl they love.” – Patti

I wasn’t prepared. Even after years of working with students alongside my husband, I felt totally inept when my daughter started middle school.l

The horror stories about what to expect during those years between the ages of twelve and fourteen terrified me. I had talked with my friends who homeschooled their children, those who had kids in private schools, and the ones like me whose daughter attended public school. All of them said the same thing — it is just hard.

As I recalled my own life during that season, it was easier to understand where the difficulties came from. Between physical changes, emotional swings, and a desperate desire for more independence, it’s no wonder those middle school years feel the perfect storm — they sort of are.

So what can we as moms do? We know it’s often a battle of the mind — where will our children’s thoughts and focus be? How can we engage in this battle to guard our children’s minds in a decidedly unguarded world?

As moms, we have a great opportunity to guide our children to habits, practices, and disciplines that will help them guard their minds and protect their hearts. But long before we ever teach them, we must be praying and applying these disciplines in our own lives.

Raising Kids Who Guard Their Minds in an Unguarded World

One of my favorite passages of Scripture is Psalm 119. The longest chapter in the Bible is focused almost entirely on one topic — the necessity of God’s Word in our lives.

If we want our children to have guarded minds, we have to fill their minds with something far more valuable than what the world offers. And what better than the Bible?

Encouraging our children to memorize Scripture is one of the most effective tools for helping them guard their minds. Consider this familiar verse:

I have treasured your word in my heart so that I may not sin against you. Psalm 119:11 CSB

Throughout my daughter’s life, we have memorized many verses of Scripture.

One of the first ones was Psalm 56:3, “When I am afraid, I will trust in You.” She was about three when we memorized that verse in effort to overcome her fear at nighttime.

That same verse came up again in middle school, when her fears were less about the monsters under the bed and more about making friends and remembering what she’d studied for a test.

Now as we’re staring down her senior year of high school and praying about colleges and career options, her fears have new faces — will she choose the wrong college and what if she doesn’t figure out what she wants to do before she finishes college?

Time and again, I have watched my daughter navigate life’s challenges and battle against the lies of the world with the truth of God’s Word. She’s guarded her mind with Scripture and it has helped her stand strong and confident in this world where “anything goes.”

As moms, we have a great opportunity to guide our children to habits, practices, and disciplines that will help them guard their minds and protect their hearts. But long before we ever teach them, we must be praying and applying these disciplines in own lives.

What is one way you’ve taught your child to guard his or her mind? Are there verses you have memorized together in effort to stand strong against the lies of the world?

******************************************

{Praying for our daughters to have guarded minds is just one of the important topics covered in my new book, Praying for Girls: Asking God for the Things They Need Most.}

Teri Lynne Underwood is a pastor’s wife, ministry speaker, and Bible teacher. As the founder of www.PrayersforGirls.com, Teri Lynne is a cheerleader for girl moms and the author of Praying for Girls: Asking God for the Things They Need Most. Click here for more information and to pre-order the book.

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How to Pray WITH Your Friend, Not Just FOR Your Friend

April 13, 2017 by Lisa Burgess 20 Comments

“We are not simply two people helping each other with our own ideas, insights and thoughts.

We are able to sit together in the presence of the living God in that sanctuary of the soul.

Not two, but three. That makes all the difference.”
– Keith R. Anderson

Praying Is Personal

The ladies were listening. One of our own was telling her story. Pain was in her voice. We felt close and wanted to do more than hear and offer encouragement.

So we gathered around her, surrounding her with our hands and hearts, and then with our words to the Father.

Praying is personal.

When our friends are struggling, we pray for them. And they pray for us.

But how often do we pray with each other, not just for each other?

We’re discussing here all month how to be a better friend. (See 5 Reasons We Need Friends; Taking the Initiative to Be a Better Friend; Friendship Matters)

Can praying with our friends be another way to be a better friend?

But I’m Scared to Pray Aloud

Though our hearts may be willing, our egos often block us.

We may be afraid we’ll stumble over our words if we pray aloud.
That we won’t know what to say.
That we won’t do it “right.”

We also may fear it will embarrass our friend. (Always ask permission first!) If it’s not something we normally do together, it may initially feel uncomfortable. Even though three of my closest Christian friends and I since childhood have spent hours and hours talking about God together, only recently have we started talking to God together. It’s a journey.

And what about Matthew 6:5-8 when Jesus warned his disciples against praying in public for praise?

5 And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites. For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward.

6 But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.
Matthew 6:5-6

These are all definite concerns. But one by one, we can dismantle them all to become a better friend to those we love.

5 Tips for Praying Together

1. Start small.

When you’re first beginning to pray with friends, keep it short. Stay with one topic (pray over a meal, pray about a doctor’s visit). Ask what they’d like prayers for, then pray only for that.

You can even use a prayer script of sorts [here’s one to download]. Or read favorite scriptures as you pray over each other or pray from a prayer book.

2. Use time wisely.

Finding time to pray together is another obstacle, but usually we can take 5 minutes from our ordinary conversations together to talk to God in person. Make a date if you need to. Plan it once or as a recurring event.

But also be spontaneous. When your friend says, “Can you pray for me about this?” Say yes and start praying right then. Just do it.

3. Pray in varied ways.

We don’t have to be face to face to communicate verbally with our friends. Use Facetime or Skype to pray together. My friend Linda and I used to pray together over the phone at 7am on weekday mornings for a season. It brought us closer than we could have imagined. Or swap prayer emails back and forth. Or short texts.

You can even send your prayer through a card via snail mail. Who wouldn’t love to receive that? God hears your prayer when you write it, then He and your friend hear it again when they read it.

4. Be yourself.

Be conversational. Don’t use King James language or try to sound like someone you’re not. Be humble as you pray to avoid the Matthew 6 dilemma of praying only to look good. Refrain from preaching to get a point across to your friend through your prayers. Be gracious and respectful with your words.

If you’re a passionate talker with your friend, be a passionate pray-er with her as well. Or if you’re a quiet, listening type, pray with lots of open pauses and contemplative spaces for God to speak, too. Keep the conversation open between you, your friend, and God. Listen and learn from powerful pray-ers you know, but ultimately be yourself.

5. Expect answers.

God is listening. The Spirit is interceding with words you don’t even know about (Romans 8:26-27). As soon as you and your friend invite God into the conversation, He begins answering.

But you may not see His answer immediately. Maybe not for months. Or even years. But know that He is answering, setting things in motion and moving in His way and in His time, even when we lack the vision to see it.

Rewards of Praying Together

Jesus often prayed alone. But He also prayed with His friends. When we pray with our friends, we’re following in His footsteps and in the example of His first disciples. (See Luke 11:1; Luke 22:39-40; Acts 4:24; Acts 12:12; Acts 16:25)

Because praying is an intimate activity, you’ll grow closer with friends you pray with. Prayer reveals our hearts in ways that regular conversations just don’t.

It won’t be an activity you do regularly with all your friends, but cultivate an inner circle of friends with whom it can become natural.

As you bless others and are blessed by others through praying together, your faith and love for the Lord will grow, too. You’ll learn to ask for things you might not have considered. And you’ll likely see new answers you might not have otherwise seen through prayers you prayed alone (James 5:14-16).

Your Voice Is Unique

Just as you and your friend have unique conversations, so, too, your prayers together with God will be unique. No one will pray the exact words with your friend that you will. Don’t rob someone else of your blessing. And don’t be robbed of being blessed yourself.

Take the challenge and begin praying more with your friends this month, not just for them.

Then watch what God will do!

Want to pray WITH your friends, not just FOR them? #BeABetterFriend

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Extras

• Download this simple prayer template

• How to Bless Your Friends
Friends don’t let friends live unblessed. Don’t let yours go until you bless them.

• 5 Tips on Praying with Your Spouse or Friend
See common roadblocks to praying together and how to overcome them.

• When We’re Afraid to Pray Aloud
No matter how inarticulate we may feel, God knows what we mean.

• 5 Graces When a Woman Prays
Just as female conversations can differ from male conversations, our prayers can, too.

• No Voice Like Yours: An Uncommon Gift
Why your voice is one of the most sacred gifts you can offer.

Question:
Have you prayed with a friend lately? Is it easy or hard for you to pray aloud with friends? Please share your experience and tips in the comments.

My Daily Prayers – A Printable Prayer Sheet for Kids

October 26, 2016 by Patti Brown 2 Comments

Print our free daily prayer sheet for children. Create a prayer journal and encourage your child to have a daily conversation with God.

We are continuing our children’s printable prayer sheet series with a sheet that can be filled out each day. This prayer sheet is intended to be used to encourage your child to grow in the habit of daily conversation with God.

The last time we shared a children’s prayer sheet we focused on a list of people and situations to keep in mind to pray for at any time. Our last sheet was a static sheet that can be filled out once and slowly added to.

The daily prayer sheet can be used to create a prayer journal with a new sheet for each day.

Talk through the prayer page with your child when you first introduce it. The list follows the basics ACTS model:

Adoration (worship)
Confession (confessing sins and asking forgiveness)
Thanksgiving (thanking God)
Supplication (making requests)

Here is a child friendly way to explain the categories:

I love you because…
- There are so many reasons to praise God! This line is a great place to list some.
Please forgive me for…
- Confessing our sins and asking for forgiveness renews our hearts
Thank you for…
- We want to develop the habit of being thankful at a very young age, because thanksgiving is obedience!
Please bless…
- Ask for God’s blessing on someone you care about
Please help my friend…
- This is called intercessory prayer – praying for the needs of others. Who is needy in your life today?
Please help me to…
- We pray for others, and we also pray for God to help us to grow. What are you struggling with?

Download the “My Daily Prayers” sheet

Download our “My Daily Prayers” printable for kids! #LetTheChildrenCome

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Start a prayer journal for your child with our free resources. #LetTheChildrenCome

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Prayers for a Hurting World: Series Wrap Up

August 30, 2016 by Ali Shaw 3 Comments

All this month, we’ve focused on our hurting world. We’ve looked intently at some disheartening events and situations that show the magnitude of brokenness and pain we live amongst.

We thank you for taking the time to pray with us this month.

Prayers for a Hurting World month-long series at DoNotDepart.com includes printable prayer cards

Though we live in a messy world, we can’t lose heart! God is sovereign and His love is deeper that the deepest pit. (A paraphrase of Corrie Ten Boom’s famous words.)

This month, we looked at how we can pray for:

Murder: Though incredibly painful and difficult to understand, we can pray for God to bring beauty from the dirt and ashes.
Politics: No matter what happens politically, we can bring our concerns to God and trust in His help, here and now.
Terrorism: Even when we’re reluctant to face the terror in terrorism, we can boldly come before God and stand against this evil by kneeling in prayer.
Slavery: In this day and age it may be hard to imagine that many people are still trapped in slavery and human trafficking. We can pray that God would bring protection and freedom for the enslaved.
Persecution: Many of our Christian brothers and sisters around the world are suffering persecution, but we can come before our Father’s throne on there behalf in powerful ways.
We also were blessed with a very wise and helpful guest post this month on racism and its remedy. (Thank you, Ayoka Billions!)

And at the beginning of the month, we promised you a printable prayer prompt that will serve to encourage and guide you as you lift your heart and voices to God. As Believers, we know what dire need humanity has for Christ and the wholeness only He can give.

Click on the images above or here to download our Prayers for a Hurting World Printable.

We consider ourselves blessed by our DoNotDepart reader-community– again, we thank you for praying with us!

Ali

Prayers for a Hurting World series wrap up and printable prayer prompt.

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Praying for the Persecuted and for Those Who Persecute

August 25, 2016 by Patti Brown 1 Comment

Persecution of Christians is at its highest level in modern history. How can we pray for those who are persecuted, and for their oppressors?

Christians have been persecuted since before the term “Christian” even existed. The book of Acts is filled with many such stories, and persecution only increased in the first centuries of Christianity.

Persecution of Christians continues to this day. According to the non-profit organization Open Doors, 2015 was the worst year in modern history for Christian persecution: “More than 7,100 Christians were killed for faith-related reasons, and 2,400 churches were destroyed or damaged.”

Our brothers and sister in Christ are suffering. As painful as it is to recognize this reality, our hearts are connected to theirs as members of the body of Christ. It is our privilege to pray for them.

And not only are we called to pray for fellow believers, we are also instructed to pray for those who persecute. God can do incredible works in the hearts of men like Taher (read the full story here):

“Taher was the last one you would expect to convert to Christianity . . . So when his daughter came to Christ, Taher was very angry. When his wife also came to Christ, he became even angrier and when finally even his son turned his back on Islam and accepted Christ, he became outraged . . . In his despair he memorized Koran verses and focused on Allah, the god he served so passionately that he scared away his own family: ‘Please show me your face’ he begged . . . In his dream he saw a man, riding a donkey. The man came towards him. He had never seen the man before, but the man hugged him and said: ‘I will clean you from all your sins, you are free: I will give you rest. Believe in me.’ . . . Waking up he knew that Jesus Christ was the only true God.”

What Does God’s Word Say About Persecution?

Persecution will happen. Don’t be surprised.

“Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” 2 Timothy 3:12

“Do not be surprised, brothers, that the world hates you.” 1 John 3:13

“Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.” 1 Peter 4:12-13

Those who are persecuted are blessed.

“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:10

“If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.” 1 Peter 4:14

We are to love, bless, and pray for our enemies.

“But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” Matthew 5:44

“Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them.” Romans 12:14

“Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing.” 1 Peter 3:9

“Bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you.” Luke 6:28

How Can We Pray?

1) Pray for those who are persecuted:

for courage and peace
that they would abide in the Lord and know His presence
for the ability to continue to share their hope in Chris
that they would be able to rejoice in the midst of their trials

2) Pray for those who persecute:

that their hearts would be softened to the truth
that they would come to saving faith in Jesus Christ
that God would use them in a mighty way for His kingdom

A Simple Prayer for Those Entangled in Persecution

“Lord, I pray Your blessing on those who are persecuted for Your name’s sake (Matthew 5:10), that they will be filled with Your courage and peace (Phillipans 4:6-7), and that through Your strength they will rejoice (1 Peter 4:12-14). Please help them to know Your love each day (Romans 8:35-37), and abiding in You, to love those who persecute them (Matthew 5:44). I pray also for those who persecute, that their hearts would be softened, and that You would draw them to Yourself so that they might become Yours forever. Amen.”

A simple prayer for the persecuted and for those who persecute. #PrayersForAHurtingWorld

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2015 was the worst year in modern history for Christian persecution. How can we pray?

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Prayers for a Hurting World month-long series at DoNotDepart, includes free printable prayer cards

Praying for a World That Knows Terrorism

August 16, 2016 by Kelli LaFram Leave a Comment

I remember standing on the tarmac of a small airport in Florida getting ready to board an airplane when airport security came out and escorted me and the other passengers back into the small terminal. It didn’t take long before I realized something was terribly wrong. The few television screens in the building each showed the same scenes — a 767 crashing into the first tower of the World Trade Center. And then another crashing into the second tower.

September 11, 2011. It was the first time I felt terrified simply because I was an American.

When I hear the word terrorism this day immediately comes to my mind, but it is not the only act of terrorism that has happened in my lifetime. When terrorists attacked my nation it was easy to pray despite the fact that I was not even walking with the Lord at the time. And now that I am a Christian I wish that I could say that prayer comes easily when I hear of other acts of terror happening around the world. Sadly, it doesn’t.

When I hear of mass shootings, suicide bombings, or vehicular attacks I don’t pray as I know I should — whole-heartedly and in connection with the Spirit of God. Maybe it is because I don’t know how to pray for people I don’t know. Maybe it’s because I feel so far removed from the place of terror. Maybe it’s because I don’t want to revisit the pain and terror I felt because of 9/11. Yes, perhaps all of those, but maybe it’s also because I want to selfishly stick my head in the sand, pretend I can’t do much anyway, and go on with my life.

Oh, how I hate to admit what a sinner I am!

But, if I really want to be obedient to my Lord and Savior, if I really want to love my neighbor as He commands, if I really believe in the power of prayer like I say I do, then I must repent and ask for His guidance and direction.

The Power Behind Prayer

If you are like me and find it difficult to pray when terrorism or other world suffering happens, then you need to know this. We have the privilege of praying in the Spirit (1 Corinthians 14:15, Ephesians 6:18, Jude 1:20). Now, don’t worry, I’m not about to give an opinion on speaking in tongues. Rather, I’m saying that the Holy Spirit is here with each of us to lead us and help us in our prayers.

So I encourage you, from one reluctant prayer warrior to perhaps another, to pause when the Holy Spirit taps on your heart and pray as He leads. He will show you how to pray for those who are affected by terrorism.

Standing Against Terror in Prayer

On September 11, 2001 I prayed for safety and relief from pain and suffering, but we can pray for so much more. When terror hits we can:

Pray with thanksgiving because God is in control even when circumstances seem horrifyingly chaotic.
Pray that the Church would bravely reach out to a hurting world and share the gospel, the only message of true hope.
Pray that the lost would see that “surely there is a future, and (our) hope will not be cut off.” (Proverbs 23:18)
Pray that forgiveness, not bitterness or envy, would take root in the hearts of terror victims and through this forgiveness true healing would take place.

Together let’s stand against terror by kneeling in pray. And there is no better time than the present.

Lord in heaven, I am thankful that you are in control and there is nothing happening that you are not aware of. For you are the Lord God and you are with us wherever we go. We need not be dismayed (Joshua 1:9), no matter the terrifying things that are happening to us and around us. Thank you for the spirit of love, power, and sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7) that you have given your Church, and I ask now that we would bravely reach out to a lost and hurting world with the only message of hope, your gospel. I pray that your message would be received and yet-to-be-believers would see that there is a future hope and it will not be cut off (Proverbs 23:18). I also ask that forgiveness would take root in the hearts of those who have been viciously wronged and feel justified in revenge. This I pray all in the name of your son Jesus Christ. Amen.

Friends, never forget that “surely there is a future and your hope will not be cut off” (Proverbs 23:18).

Only by grace,

Kelli

For surely there is a future and your hope will not be cut off. Proverbs 23:18

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Stand against terror by kneeling in pray.

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4 Things to Pray About Politics, No Matter What

August 11, 2016 by Lisa Burgess 21 Comments

Have you been irritated by bickering on Facebook during this election cycle?
Have you fallen into personal arguments with family or friends over politics?
Have you fretted over what will happen if a particular candidate wins or loses?

This month at the blog we’re looking at our hurting world. And how we can pray for it.

This includes praying for our political system. But what are we to pray?

Stirred Up

We’ve either experienced it and/or seen it more the past few months: fear, cynicism, anger, and worries.

If Candidate A wins, what will happen to national security?
If Candidate B wins, will moral character go out the window?
If I vote for a third party, will it be wasted?
Should I even vote at all?

What is God thinking and what does He expect us to do?

Don’t Trust in Horses

Our problem isn’t new. Because all our leaders are human, all our past and current leaders have been flawed. And will be flawed in the future. That’s a given.

When we place complete trust in any person, we show we’re flawed, too.

Listen to what King David said (a great leader to the Hebrew people, albeit also flawed), thousands of years ago.

“Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God” (Psalm 20:7).

Or as The Message puts it:

“See those people polishing their chariots, and those others grooming their horses? But we’re making garlands for GOD our God” (Psalm 20:7, The Message).

When we trust too much in democracy or a better candidate or any political party, we too are polishing chariots and grooming horses.

So how can we trust in God instead in real-life ways?

4 Things to Pray

Here are 4 things to pray about during this political season. It is possible to stay spiritually hopeful through this election cycle. No matter what.

Fear→BELIEF

Lord,
When we feel in danger, remind us You are in control. When we are insecure, be our strong refuge. Even when we feel defeated, we know You’ve already won the victory. No matter what.

Cynicism→ACTION

Lord,
We’re often tempted to give up. We become distrustful of politicians and become negative about others’ motives and words. But You tell us to not grow weary. Let us remain hopeful and actively influential. First in our families, our neighborhoods, and our cities. Then in our states, nations, and world. No matter what.

Anger→SERVICE

Lord,
Where prejudice exists—whether in us or in others—send us in with love. Show us opportunities to serve those who think differently than us. Help us lend a hand. Listen to learn. Meet real needs. We’ll never change anyone with angry lectures. But we can love people with Your gifts of grace. No matter what.

Worry→REST

Lord,
Renew our minds to dwell on You in this day, not on potential troubles in the future. You have the past, present, and future in Your hands. Your help is here. Your help is now. We can rest in peace. No matter what.

Keep Love First

Politics has its place. Be informed. Stay engaged. But the place of politics isn’t first.

The greatest command is still this:

Love God, love others.

If we lose our races, and also lose our faith, which loss is the greatest?
If we win our elections, but lose our friendships, what have we gained?

True peace is only found in the eternal kingdom of God. No vote can abolish our fellowship with Him. No political party can strip away His love. No local councilman nor President of a country can overrule our capacity to love others.

Under God’s reign, we remain forever secure, ever hopeful, and lavishly loved by Christ.

No matter what.

Want more?

Do I Really Have to Pray for Politicians I Oppose? by Darin Smith
A Pastoral Perspective on the 2016 Election, Pass the Mic podcast by Tyler Burns and Pastor Earon James

Are you struggling with politics more than normal this year?

Is there a scripture that keeps you focused on Christ? Please share in the comments.

Have a different response to politics. “4 Things to Pray, No Matter What” #PrayersForAHurtingWorld

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Printable Prayer Sheet for Children

August 9, 2016 by Patti Brown 5 Comments

This month we are focusing on prayers for our hurting world. Children recognize that people hurt, even if their perception is limited to the people they see every day. Growing our children’s awareness of others’ needs and their own need for God is part of our job as shepherds of their faith journey while they are in our homes.

Some children take naturally to prayer, while for others it is more of a discipline to be developed. It is safe to say this is the same for adults. Some of us feel deeply called to the ministry of prayer and others have to learn to make it a part of their daily faith walk.

Whether prayer comes intuitively for your child or not, a prayer journal can be a helpful tool as they learn to pray without ceasing.

I have created a simple template that you can print for your child to use as the beginning of a prayer journal. With it they can keep track of people to remember to pray for. In coming months I will share other pages they can add to a three ring binder in order to create as simple or detailed a prayer journal as they wish to maintain.

Print this simple prayer list template to help your children keep track of people they want to pray for. DoNotDepart.com

“I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people” 1 Timothy 2:1b

I pray that you and your children will find this prayer sheet a helpful tool as you grow in the discipline and joy of praying for others.

Print our simple prayer sheet to help your child remember to pray. #LetTheChildrenCome

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Murder in God’s World: How to Pray for the Hurting and Lost

August 4, 2016 by Ali Shaw 1 Comment

Murder in God's World: How to Pray ... series: Prayers for a Hurting World at DoNotDepart.com

I was in Orlando, vacationing with my family when I saw posts on Facebook telling about the horrors that happened in a nightclub. I followed a few links and read the news story with heavy-heartedness. (I’m sure you know about that event that happened earlier this summer.)

Just a few weeks ago, I read about the ruthless murder (deemed “honor killing”) of a Muslim social-media “star” who was attempting to take a stand against her Muslim upbringing. (Oh, if she’d only known Jesus!)

And recently in my quiet, small town, the cruelty of murder touched our community when a man took the life of his girlfriend, her friend, his small child, and then turned the gun on himself.

We can’t understand the level of hatred, pain, or insanity that would compel a person to commit such atrocious acts. Yet, stories like this happen across the globe.

The fact is that our world is broken because the people in it are broken. We are all in need of wholeness in Christ and of His salvation — and the heart changes that come with it. (Note: This post is not addressing the physical healing that is needed in murderers with mental illness. Mental illness of that magnitude is in need of both prayer and professional help.)

One aspect of murder that makes my heart especially heavy is when a life is taken before the victim has a chance to repent and come to know Christ. Another is when the grieving loved ones left behind don’t know the comfort of our Savior who can help them navigate the journey through pain into healing.

How to Pray

When Jesus found out about the murder of His dear friend and cousin, John the Baptist, He went away, alone, to a desolate place . . . presumably to pray.

When King Jehoshaphat was faced with adversity (yes, of an entirely different type), he also prayed. And I love his story because it reminds us that even when we don’t understand, or know what to do, God does.

“We don’t know what to do, but our eyes are on you.” 2 Chronicles 20:12 c)

And God was faithful to Jehoshaphat and the kingdom of Judah, just like He is to us. We can always trust His power to turn any adversity (spiritual, physical, emotional) into victory.

So, what can we pray when we’re faced with such horrific stories? The news can blast the facts, but we’re left feeling heavyhearted and perhaps even helpless.

We can pray for spiritual victory (salvation, growth, even good future fruit)… for the murderer (if still living) and for the victims’ families.
We can ask that God would bring the offender and the offended to a place of seeking forgiveness and being forgiving.
We can pray, asking God to comfort the mourning.
We can pray for spiritual peace, healing, and direction for the community.
We can pray for God to act… in whatever way He knows is best.
We can pray for God to release any who are held captive to fear.
We can pray for God to show us how we can shine Christ’s light and make a physical difference in our dark world.

A simple prayer we can pray together:

Lord, we don’t understand murder, but we do understand that you can give victory in the most difficult situations. We ask for you to bring salvation to those who are lost, bring comfort to the mourning, and bring fruit for your kingdom out of the dirt and ashes of pain. Show us how to shine your light, love, and forgiveness in a dark world. In Jesus’ name, amen.

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” Matthew 5:4

Will you join us in praying about murder in God’s world?
Ali

Beauty from dirt and ashes. Murder in God’s World: Praying for the Hurting and Lost. #PrayersForAHurtingWorld

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How can we pray about murder in God’s World? Talking about this in today’s post. #PrayersForAHurtingWorld

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Prayers for a Hurting World

August 2, 2016 by Ali Shaw 4 Comments

It often seems that when I turn on the television, open my Facebook, or read the news there’s another painful event happening somewhere in the world.

Our world is hurting and broken.

And I know that it all began when Adam and Eve first bit into that juicy, tempting fruit. Sin entered the world and is still lurking. Wickedness is rampant and Satan is smiling.

But lest we be disheartened, we must remember: God is still on the throne!

So, as Christians, what can we do? Where is our part on this world-stage of events? Terrorism, murder, hatred, racial tension, poverty, and bigotry abound and we seem so small.

There are a lot of great ways to be involved locally, donate monetarily, and travel and serve missionally.

But there’s another thing we can do and need to do to help our hurting world.

We can pray.

God has called us to bear one another’s burdens. He’s called us to pray without ceasing.

And this seemingly small thing can move mountains.

Why Pray for our World?

Scripture urges us to prayer and models powerful prayers to us. (Matthew 6:6, 9-13)
Scripture shows us that prayers move God’s heart (Matthew 7:7-11)
Scripture shows us that prayer is a powerful weapon (Eph 6:12, 18)
Time spent communicating with God changes our hearts and minds to align with His (Luke 22:42)
Time spent in quiet prayer tunes our hearts to hear God’s voice more clearly (John 10:27)
Praying for others is an honor that generates Christlike compassion (Galatians 6:2)

This month at DoNotDepart we’ll focus on some specific issues and events that our pained world is facing. We’ll even give you some printable prayer prompts later this month that will encourage you in your prayer time with God. We’ll show you ways that you can pray and arm you with Scriptures that you can use as you lift your hearts and voices to God, crying out on behalf of humanity and it’s need for wholeness in Christ.

Please join us.

Ali

Month long series at DoNotDepart: #PrayersForAHurtingWorld

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Plan to Abide – Wrap Up

January 28, 2016 by Patti Brown Leave a Comment

Plan to spend more time this year in God's Word and pursuing a growing relationship with Jesus Christ. Find resources to help you plan in this month's series "Plan to Abide."

How are you going to abide in God’s Word this year? Have you made a plan yet?

We hope that you have discovered some new resources throughout this month’s series Plan to Abide. Be sure to check out each of our posts:

Make a plan to read the entire bible, or a portion of it, this year. Ali has suggestions in her post on bible reading plans.
While bible reading is an essential part of a believer’s growth, bible study helps you dig deeper and really connect on a personal level. Caroline lists ten bible studies to consider delving into.
Have you tried bible journaling? Lisa offers lots of ideas for how you can incorporate this practice into your plan to abide in God’s Word!
Does it seem odd to plan to pray? Yet life can get so busy – having a plan may be just the thing you need to keep prayer a daily habit.
Lindsey shares six tips to help you memorize scripture – a spiritual discipline that can bear beautiful fruit this year.
Make a plan for the children in your life too! I offer kid-friendly suggestions for all five of the above topics in my post Kids in the Word – Plan to Abide.

Is there anything you are looking to add to your plan this year? We would love to help you find the perfect resources! Just leave a comment and our team will share our best suggestions.

#PlanToAbide in 2016 – a list of #bible resources!

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Kids in the Word – Plan to Abide

January 19, 2016 by Patti Brown Leave a Comment

Resources to help your children grow with God each day.

Children need time in God’s Word just as much as adults do. This month we are sharing resources to help you plan to be more intentional about growing with God – here are some suggestions that you can use to help the children in your life abide in 2016!

Bible Reading

Have your child read from the Child’s Story Bible by Catherine Voss each day
Younger children will enjoy the Jesus Storybook Bible
All ages can use the family plan using resources from The Gospel Project
Follow this simple bible reading plan from Learn For Your Life

Bible Studies

Katie Johnson explains how to do inductive bibles studies with kids
Joyce Moy shares ideas for helping kids with different learning styles study the bible
Do you have a child with special needs? Include them in bible study too!
Calvary Chapel has created printable bible studies that you can download for free, that cover both old and new testament
Online bible lessons are available at Kids World for younger and older children