Prayer for children facing injury or illness
Written by Vivian Bricker
Bible reading:
“Do not therefore fear, for I am with you. Do not be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10
Listen or read below:
After an incidental finding on an MRI this summer, my doctor referred me to a specialist for follow-up. I’ll never forget when the specialist came into my room. He was worried that I didn’t have anyone with him because he had news that was difficult to share. He also told me that there were suspicious lesions on my body and that he wanted to do further tests. You will likely have to undergo an extensive procedure where a biopsy is performed to confirm that cancer is not present.
As I continue this health battle, I feel anxious and fearful about upcoming procedures. My thoughts were, “What if I find cancer? What if I have to undergo extensive treatment and surgery?” All these questions and worries run through your mind and you end up not being able to concentrate on your daily tasks. When you consider that some children are battling different injuries, illnesses, and diagnoses, it becomes difficult to cope. I can’t even imagine the fear that arises not only in their hearts, but also in the hearts of their parents. I’m an adult and it’s hard enough to deal with this pain and fear as a child.
It breaks my heart to know that so many children around the world are also going through this. Our hearts go out to these children and their families. If there is anything we can and must do for these children and their loved ones, it is to encourage them in prayer.
James 5:14 says, “Is anyone among you sick? Call the elders of the church to pray for them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord.” Even if we do not personally know sick or injured children, we can come to the Lord on their behalf. As a body of believers, we can petition and pray for our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ.
The Bible tells us, “Do not therefore be afraid, for I am with you; do not be discouraged; for I am your God; I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10). The words of this scripture were spoken to the prophet Isaiah, but they also apply to us today. Our Lord is the true God. God will strengthen you, help you, and uphold you with his righteous right hand.
God understands when we are afraid or facing difficult situations. God never leaves us to face this age alone. Just as God was with Isaiah throughout his life, He will continue to be with you. Remember that God is watching over you and surrounding you with His protection.
When children face injury or illness, it can be very difficult, but they don’t have to go through it alone. Pray that God would go before them and give them the comfort they need. God is good and can do more than we can imagine (Ephesians 3:20-21).
Let’s pray:
Dear God, there are so many children facing injuries, illnesses, and diagnoses at incredibly young ages. My heart is breaking for them and I am so sad. Help all children undergoing various treatments and surround them with the peace that only you can provide.
We also ask that you help these families, as this is not an easy road for them. Seeing your child injured or suffering from an illness must be one of the most painful things in the world. Help these children to fully recover and live fulfilling lives of service to You. Their life has just begun. It protects them from further injury and illness. God, I believe you can do all these things and more. Give them life, comfort, grace, and hope.
In your son’s name we pray, amen.
Share your thoughts on today’s devotion in the Daily Prayer discussion in the Crosswalk forum.
Photo credit: ©iStock/Getty Images Plus/gorodenkoff
Vivian Bricker earned a Bachelor of Arts in Ministry and then a Master of Arts with an emphasis in Theology. She loves theology, ministry, and all things helping others learn about Jesus. Check out more of her content on Cultivate.
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