7 Ways to Pray for the Global Church

 7 Ways to Pray for the Global Church (That Go Way Beyond "Bless Them")

You’re in your small group, and someone says, “Let’s pray for the global church.” Heads nod. Someone prays a sincere, well-meaning prayer: “God, please just… bless the missionaries. Be with them. Amen.”

We’ve all been there. We have a heart for our brothers and sisters around the world, but sometimes our prayers feel vague, distant, and repetitive. We want to pray, but we don’t always know *what* to say.

What if our prayers could be more specific? More powerful? More connected to the real struggles and triumphs of the global body of Christ?

If you’ve ever felt your prayers for the world could use a fresh perspective, here are seven unique ways to pray for the global church that get to the heart of what our family might truly need.

1. Pray for "Spiritual Stamina", Not Just Safety

It’s our default: “Lord, keep them safe.” And that’s good! But for many believers, safety isn’t a guarantee. Their prayer isn’t always for the trial to be removed, but for the strength to endure it.

Try praying this: “Father, give my brothers and sisters a supernatural resilience today. When they are weary, be their strength. When they are afraid, be their courage. Fortify their spirits with the profound peace that comes from your presence.”

2. Pray for "Deep Joy" in the Midst of Hardship

For Christians facing persecution or intense poverty, happiness based on circumstances is fleeting. But joy—the deep, abiding sense of God’s goodness—is possible anywhere.

Try praying this: “Lord, I ask that you would surprise them with moments of undeniable joy today. Let them experience a laughter that shocks the darkness, a gladness that confuses their struggles, and a deep-seated joy that proves your Spirit is with them.”

3. Pray for "Creativity and Wisdom"for Frontline Workers

Missionaries and local pastors often face complex problems: how to get resources, how to navigate government red tape, how to share the Gospel in a culturally relevant way. They need more than just resources; they need divine strategy.

Try praying this: “God, grant them creativity. Give them innovative ideas to solve problems and open doors that no one can shut. Provide them with wisdom that can only come from you to navigate immense challenges.”

4. Pray for "Strong, Healthy Community"

Isolation is a killer of faith, especially when you’re far from home or under pressure. Pray against loneliness and for the gift of true, supportive fellowship.

Try praying this: “I pray against loneliness for them. Bring them kindred spirits, loyal friends, and a supportive community where they can be real, be vulnerable, and be strengthened. Bind them together in unity and love.”

5. Pray for "Restoration in Their Rest"

Constant work leads to burnout, even for the most passionate. Pray for their sleep, their days off, and their emotional and mental margins.

Try praying this:“Lord, I pray for their rest. When they lay down to sleep, let it be deep and rejuvenating. Guard their days off and help them protect their time with you and their families. Restore their souls.”

6. Pray for "Favor and Open Doors"

This is a biblical prayer (Colossians 4:3)! Pray for God to orchestrate divine appointments and soften hearts in their communities.

Try praying this: “Father, go before them today. Prepare the hearts of the people they will meet. Open doors for conversation and relationship that no man can open, and give them the courage to walk through them.”

7. Pray for "Their Identity in Christ" Above All Else

In the face of opposition, it’s easy to feel defined by what you’re fighting against. Pray that they would be rooted and grounded in who they are in Jesus: loved, chosen, and secure.

Try praying this: “God, remind them today who they are. When the world shouts lies, whisper your truth. Anchor their identity not in their work or their struggles, but in their unshakable status as your beloved child.”

Your Turn

You don’t need to have all the details to pray powerfully. You just need to care enough to move beyond the general. This week, pick one of these prayers. Make it your own. Remember, you’re not just sending good thoughts into the universe; you’re joining a global conversation with a God who listens and moves, right where your brothers and sisters are.

How do you pray for the global church? Share your own ideas and prayers in the comments below to encourage others