Devotional: Prayer Prompts

When you were a child did you play the word association game? Someone says a word and you respond with the first thought that comes to your mind.

What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear these words or see any of these things throughout your day? I would love to hear your answers! 

• Child

• Church

• House

• Hospital

• The News on TV

Why not use words we hear, or visuals we see, as a prompt for us to pray throughout the day fulfilling what Paul writes in 1 Thessalonians 5:17, “Pray continually”? Here are a few ideas to get you started. 

When you see the word:

Church: Pray for the church staff and leadership as they seek ways to unite the church and forward the Gospel during these difficult times. Pray for scattered people to come back to the gathered church as soon as possible.

Child/Children: Pray for the uncertainty that many children are feeling during the COVID-19 shutdown of their schools. Pray for safe homes and for families to use this time to build strong family relationships.

Hospital: Thank the Lord for the doctors and nurses on the front lines. Pray for those with COVID-19, that they might be healed. Pray for those needing medical care but have had their procedures postponed.

House: Pray for the family living in the home. Pray for love, safety, and that Christ will be honored. Pray that they have food to eat and for good health.

The News on TV, Radio, or Newspapers: Listen for trouble spots around the world and pray for those situations immediately. Pray for the Christians and missionaries living in the midst of these situations. Pray for protection, understanding the language barriers, health, and open doors to share the Gospel.

What words prompt you to pray? “The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.”  James 5:16c

Written by WMU of Texas President Earl Ann Bumpus