As the situation in Ukraine goes on, we have many things to pray for. War can hurt civilians, leaders must make wise decisions, and families face whether to leave or stay. Here is how you can pray for Ukraine right now, both the overall situation and the Christians caught up in it.
How to Pray for Ukraine
Prayers for Ukraine may be whispered, spoken aloud, written, or in our thoughts. We can pray alone or in a group. When we go to God in prayer, He hears and listens to every word. Some people have a specific time of day to pray. Others pray when the situation comes to their thoughts. However and whenever you pray, know that God will answer.
Below are a few specific ways to pray for Ukraine.
A Prayer for Approaching God with Confidence.
Lord God,
As the world learns more about the tragic situation in Ukraine, we are thankful to have the opportunity to pray for the people of Ukraine. Thank You for listening and hearing our prayers. We are comforted knowing we can approach the throne of God with boldness and confidence. News reports where men and women are interviewed share how they can feel the prayers for Ukraine. We thank you for all these things, Lord.
Amen.
“Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16 NIV)
A Prayer for Protection in Ukraine
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for hearing the prayers of Your people. Comfort is found in sharing concerns with You. Our hearts are breaking for Ukraine. Please place Your hedge of protection over each person. We ask for Your protection over the animals, too. Reports on social media, television, radio, and word of mouth share the devastation and loss occurring every hour. Our tears flow as we wait to learn news of loved ones, friends, and strangers.
As we view videos, read, and hear personal accounts of what is happening in that area of the world, we ask for You to place a wall of protection around the entire country.
Father, please protect everyone from harm. Place a shield against all military equipment and personnel who intend to damage. Cover Ukraine with Your love and protection.
In the name of Your Son Jesus, Amen.
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave nor forsake you.” (Deuteronomy 31:6 NIV)
A Prayer for Good to Triumph in Ukraine
Dear God,
We praise You for the opportunity to share our thoughts and concerns with You. We pray for good to triumph over evil in Ukraine. We lift up the people and offer prayers for Ukraine. We know You are listening to our cries for help. Please allow the forces of evil to cease and for good to triumph. Guide each person in authority to lean on You and not rely on selfish ways.
In this challenging situation, we are comforted knowing that people worldwide are gathering and offering prayers for Ukraine. Church prayer groups have called for special meetings to pray. Signs offering prayers and support for the Ukrainian people are posted in local establishments and neighborhood lawns. The Ukrainian flag is flying in numerous countries as a symbol of support.
The most powerful way we can help is to go to You in prayer. Your plan and Your timing are always best. Father, give us patience as we wait for good to triumph.
Thank You, God. Amen.
“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:21 NIV)
A Prayer for Courage in Ukraine
Lord,
We need You. We praise You for giving us courage and strength when we ask. The people of Ukraine need courage during this time of upheaval. Their homes and environment are changing from minute to minute. Men, women, and families of all ages are leaving their homes to escape the violence of war. Trains, buses, and other vehicles are lining up to provide refuge and help each person hopefully find peace.
As the people gather some of their needed belongings and try to keep their family together, please give them courage. Cover each person with the full armor of God. Help the people to make the right decisions according to Your plan.
Fill each man, woman, and child with the courage to endure the unknown and fearful days and nights. Build them up with the strength only You can provide.
Please give courage to the doctors, nurses, other medical professionals, and volunteers as they seek to provide comfort and care to those in need.
As warning sirens continue to sound and blasts light up the night sky, we ask for You to give everyone courage. Remind them of Your love and mercy, dear Father.
We pray these things in the name of Jesus, Amen.
“The Lord is my light and my salvation- whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life- of whom shall I be afraid?” (Psalm 27:1 NIV)
A Prayer for Wise Leaders in Ukraine
Father,
Thank You for wise leaders. As the heartbreak and war continue in Ukraine, we ask for You to give each leader wisdom, discernment, and revelation. From Ukraine’s leaders to the world leaders, including Russia, please remove all evil. Fill their hearts with love, mercy, and forgiveness. Help each leader to know how to help correctly.
May we remember not to worship leaders, only to worship You.
Difficult decisions are being discussed and made by various world leaders. These choices can impact the entire planet. Please give each person in a position of power the knowledge and wisdom needed to create peace. Discussions by people in authority can lead to peace or more times of war. Remind leaders of all nations that they are not ultimately in charge. You are the light and life of the world. As people in power make choices, remind them to think of everyone affected by their decisions.
Thank You, Father, for the wisdom given by You. Amen.
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, value others above yourselves.” (Philippians 2:3 NIV)
A Prayer for Missionaries in Ukraine
God,
Thank You for missionaries at home and in other places. Some missionaries must decide whether to flee Ukraine or stay and volunteer to help those in need. Countries like the United States have begun organizing food, clothing, and toiletry drives to offer to the Ukrainian people.
As we pray for Ukraine, we ask for protection and guidance for missionaries who stay and wait for peace. Persecution comes in different forms, Lord. We ask that You cover the missionaries with Your protection against all danger and persecution.
In Your Name, Amen.
“Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples.” (1 Chronicles 16:24 NIV)
A Prayer for the Children of Ukraine
Lord God,
Thank You for children. We lift up the young ones of Ukraine. Be with them as they are learning about war and experiencing turmoil. Place the children in Your tender loving arms. Bring them peace and comfort. Cover them with Your love and mercy.
Amen.
“People were bringing little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. ‘Truly, I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.’ And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them, and blessed them.” (Mark 10:13-6 NIV)
A Prayer for Anyone with PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder)
Dear Lord,
We pray for anyone who has or may have PTSD because of the war in Ukraine. The blasts and sounds of war may bring terrifying memories of the past. Please bring comfort to anyone affected by PTSD. Guide them to seek help when needed. Remind them of Your love and peace. Be with their friends and families and provide patience and comfort.
Thank You, Lord. Amen.
“Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7 NIV)
Things to Remember As We Pray for Ukraine
Continue to offer prayers for Ukraine and the entire world. God never leaves. He hears our prayers. Whether those words are spoken, whispered, or thought, God is aware. Find comfort in knowing you are loved and cherished by Him.
In His Name,
Melissa Henderson
Photo Credit: ©Dovile Ramoskaite/Unsplash
Melissa is the author of Licky the Lizard and Grumpy the Gator. Her passions are helping in the community and church. Melissa is an Elder, Deacon, and Stephen Minister.
Follow Melissa on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and at http://www.melissaghenderson.
This article is part of our prayer resources meant to inspire and encourage your prayer life when you face uncertain times. Remember, the Holy Spirit intercedes for us, and God knows your heart even if you can't find the words to pray.
Prayers for Healing
Morning Prayers
Prayers for Family
Prayers for Surgery
Prayers for Strength
Night Prayers Before Bed
Prayers for Protection
The Lord's Prayer: Our Father
