How to Pray for the Global Food CrisisSample

While we pray for God to act, we should be prepared so He may choose to act through His people, including us! God’s desire is for abundance in the world, but our personal sin and selfishness often contribute to an unjust distribution of the world’s resources. As difficult as it is, we must pray about how God wants us to respond. Remember what you have prayed through on previous days as you bring these prayers before God.

1. Pray for decision-makers

• Pray for those in power over nations, businesses, and industries to make courageously compassionate decisions that value human life (1 Timothy 2:1-2).
• Pray that leaders will make righteous judgements (Zechariah 7:9-10).
• Pray that leaders will not turn a blind eye to suffering but take action (Amos 5:24).

2. Pray for those delivering aid.

• Pray for organizations like Compassion which are working with churches on the frontlines to fight hunger and food insecurity (Colossians 1:11-12).
• Pray for efforts to educate families in new farming and income generation methods or new practices that are resilient to changes in weather, economy, and crisis (Ecclesiastes 7:12).
• Pray that financial support would allow organizations in relief and development to continue the work they are doing in these times.

3. Pray for yourself

• Ask God to keep your heart soft to the suffering of others and to show you one way your faith can come alive through action (James 2:15-17).
• Ask God how He wants you to respond to this crisis out of what He has given you today. Consider your resources, connections, opportunities, and abilities (2 Corinthians 8:13-15).
• Ask God to give you what you need to do good and seek justice and health for people who are suffering today (Isaiah 1:17).
• Pray that God will show you the direction for your path and allow you to share what you are learning with others (Psalm 32:8).

God, it is difficult not to be distracted by my needs and comforts. Please keep my heart soft to the suffering of people both near me and far away. Show me what you have given me that I can share with others, be it the ability to raise awareness and mobilize others, give financially, work towards solutions, or continue to pray. Keep this cause in my mind, Lord God, and have mercy on us, Your people. Amen.