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A Prayer Over the Survivor’s Grief and Mourning

“Sorrow is one of the things that are lent, not given. A thing that is lent may be taken away; a thing that is given is not taken away. Joy is given; sorrow is lent… [Our sorrow] is lent us for just a little while that we may use it for eternal purposes. Then it will be taken away and everlasting joy will be our Father’s gift to us, and the Lord God will wipe away all the tears from off all faces.” –Amy Charmichael

Dear God of all comfort,

There are many losses in the life of a survivor of sexual exploitation. They may grieve the loss of childhood or normal life experiences, trust, innocence, and certain relationships. They may experience deep sadness, jealousy, anger, or longing for something they never had, wishing their life’s story was different. Jesus, you said, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” (Matt. 5:4) Comfort them in their affliction, and they will in turn comfort others with the same comfort they receive from you. (2 Cor. 1:4)

God of hope, fill them with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit they may abound in hope. (Rom. 15:13) O God, your consolations cheer the soul. (Ps. 94:19) You are close to the broken hearted. You heal them and bind up their wounds. You save those who are crushed in spirit. (Ps. 147:2-4; Ps. 34:18) Reveal yourself to survivors with your tender comfort, because you love them. In the mighty name of Jesus, I pray, amen.