Christians are ill-treated, intimidated, bullied, discriminated against, unfairly accused and arrested, imprisoned, tortured or even killed in many countries. Persecution can come from family and community or systematic hostility from political or religious institutions.
Amid reports of persecution such as imprisonment, torture, violent attacks and displacement it can be hard to know how to pray, so we provide suggested prayer points below to help you intercede on behalf of persecuted Christians. For more ideas, see our Prayer Resources.
Pray for prisoners
- For strong faith and perseverance despite the difficult circumstances
- For knowledge that God is present and that they are not forgotten
- For comfort, peace and hope
- For fellowship with other Christian prisoners
- For witness to prison guards and other prisoners
- For justice and release
Pray for prisoners’ families
- For help in coping with loneliness and loss
- For provision for families with reduced income
- For protection from psychological harm and bitterness
- For an ongoing experience of God’s love and care
- For protection from attack
Pray for prisoners who have been released
- For the restoration of their lives
- For return to full physical, emotional and spiritual health
- For healing from any trauma they have experienced
- For blessing of family relationships after absence
Pray for Christians experiencing persecution
- For protection and safety from attacks
- For financial provision for families suffering discrimination
- For courage, sustenance and strength
- Against isolation
- For support and encouragement via TV, Internet and social media