An intercessory prayer for the church is a powerful act of faith and love, stepping in on behalf of the needs of others, as it seeks God’s divine intervention in the life of the church body. The body of Christ is already witnessing for love, salvation, and grace in the world; there should be nothing much for the church to be anointed with. There are also challenges confronting the church, be it spiritual, social, or relational. And it is prayer that gives the church the power to overcome every one of them.
The intercessory prayer for the church is a means of partnering with God so that He protects, guides, and empowers His church in her mission. It is a type of prayer that calls believers to pray for all matters of the church: for herself, for her leaders, for her congregation, and even for those outside the church who may need salvation and healing.
Intercessory Prayers For The Church
Intercessory prayer is one of the main functions of a believer since we are called to be the salt and light of the world (Matthew 5:13-14). We are instructed to pray for one another, for our leaders, and for those in authority over us who are responsible for shaping the very direction and health of the church.
As we intercede for the church, we submit the mission, ministries, and members of the church before God with the faith that He will bless them with wisdom, strength, and protection. Intercession is bringing God’s will into alignment for His church and seeking to advance His kingdom here. With unwavering and fervent prayer, we invite God’s presence to effect change in lives and circumstances, accomplishing His purpose for the church in every season.
1. A Prayer for Spiritual Revival in the Church:
Lord, we pray for a spiritual awakening in Your church. Stir our hearts to seek You with a fresh passion and desire for holiness. May the church be revitalized with the power of the Holy Spirit, and may we witness a mighty move of God that transforms lives.
Psalm 85:6
“Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you?”
Lord, revive Your church and fill us with renewed zeal for You. Amen.
2. A Prayer for Unity in the Body of Christ:
Father, we ask that You bring unity within Your church. Help us to be one in purpose, one in spirit, and one in love. May we work together to fulfill Your mission and spread the gospel, setting aside differences for the greater good of the Kingdom.
Ephesians 4:3
“Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
Lord, unite us in love and purpose. Amen.
3. A Prayer for the Church Leaders:
Lord, we lift up the leaders of the church to You. Grant them wisdom, discernment, and strength as they lead Your people. Protect them from discouragement and guide them to make decisions that honor You and advance Your Kingdom.
1 Timothy 2:1-2
“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”
Lord, bless our leaders with Your wisdom. Amen.
4. A Prayer for Church Growth and Expansion:
Father, we pray for the growth of Your church. May Your word be preached with boldness, and may souls be saved and added to Your Kingdom. Open doors for the gospel to spread far and wide, reaching every nation.
Acts 2:47
“And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.”
Lord, grow Your church, and may many come to know You. Amen.
5. A Prayer for the Protection of the Church:
God, we ask for Your divine protection over the church. Guard it from physical, spiritual, and emotional harm. Shield Your people from any attacks of the enemy and keep us safe under Your mighty hand.
Psalm 121:7-8
“The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.”
Lord, protect Your church and keep it safe in Your care. Amen.
6. A Prayer for Financial Provision for the Church:
Lord, we ask for Your provision to flow into the church. Bless the work of the church’s hands and provide the resources needed to continue the ministry. Open doors of financial blessing so that Your work may prosper and be a light to the world.
Philippians 4:19
“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”
Lord, provide for the financial needs of the church. Amen.
7. A Prayer for a Spirit of Worship in the Church:
Father, we pray that Your church would be filled with a spirit of true worship. Help us to worship You in spirit and truth, not just in song but in our everyday lives. May our hearts be drawn to You in praise and adoration.
John 4:24
“God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.”
Lord, help us to worship You with all our hearts. Amen.
8. A Prayer for Church’s Impact in the Community:
Lord, we pray that the church would make a positive impact on the surrounding community. May our actions reflect Your love and bring transformation to those around us. Use us as instruments of change and hope in the world.
Matthew 5:14-16
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.”
Lord, help us to be a shining light in our community. Amen.
9. A Prayer for Church Members’ Personal Spiritual Growth:
God, we ask that You continue to nurture the spiritual growth of every member in Your church. May we each grow in our relationship with You, becoming more like Christ in our thoughts, words, and actions.
Colossians 2:7
“Rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.”
Lord, help each member to grow spiritually in You. Amen.
10. A Prayer for Church’s Missionary Work:
Lord, we lift up the missionary work of the church. May Your message of salvation reach those in the darkest corners of the world. Empower missionaries to boldly preach the gospel and plant churches that will make disciples of all nations.
Matthew 28:19-20
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”
Lord, strengthen the hands of missionaries worldwide. Amen.
11. A Prayer for the Church’s Youth Ministry:
Father, we pray for the youth ministry of the church. Raise up a generation that is passionate for You, one that will boldly follow Christ and impact the world for Your Kingdom. Guide leaders to disciple them well and instill a deep love for Your word.
1 Timothy 4:12
“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.”
Lord, raise up a mighty generation for Your glory. Amen.
12. A Prayer for Church’s Outreach Programs:
God, we pray for the outreach programs of the church. May these initiatives reach those who are hurting, broken, and lost. Help us to bring the love of Christ to those in need and to share the hope of the gospel through action.
Isaiah 61:1
“The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor.”
Lord, empower our outreach programs to make a difference. Amen.
13. A Prayer for Healing in the Church:
Lord, we lift up those in the church who are struggling with physical, emotional, or spiritual wounds. We ask for Your healing touch to restore them to full health. May they experience Your comfort and grace in their time of need.
James 5:14-15
“Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well.”
Lord, bring healing to Your people. Amen.
14. A Prayer for the Church’s Children’s Ministry:
God, we pray for the children’s ministry in the church. May it be a safe place where young hearts can grow in the knowledge of You. Raise up passionate teachers to share Your truth and love with the children, building a strong foundation for their faith.
Proverbs 22:6
“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.”
Lord, bless the children’s ministry with wisdom and grace. Amen.
15. A Prayer for Church’s Prayer Ministry:
Lord, we pray for the prayer ministry of the church. May it be a powerful force that intercedes on behalf of the people and the community. Stir the hearts of those involved to pray fervently, seeking Your will and intervention.
1 Thessalonians 5:17
“Pray continually.”
Lord, strengthen the prayer warriors in the church. Amen.
16. A Prayer for the Church’s Women’s Ministry:
Father, we lift up the women’s ministry in the church. May it be a place of support, encouragement, and spiritual growth. Empower the women to live out their faith boldly, leading by example and nurturing the next generation.
Titus 2:3-5
“Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. Then they can urge the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands.”
Lord, strengthen the women in the church to fulfill their calling. Amen.
17. A Prayer for the Church’s Men’s Ministry:
Lord, we pray for the men’s ministry in the church. May it be a place where men can find strength, accountability, and encouragement in their walk with You. Help them to rise up as leaders, protectors, and providers in their families and communities.
1 Corinthians 16:13-14
“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love.”
Lord, empower the men to live courageously and faithfully in You. Amen.
18. A Prayer for Church’s Evangelism Efforts:
Father, we ask for Your guidance in the church’s evangelism efforts. May the hearts of Your people be burdened for the lost, and may we boldly share the gospel with those who have yet to hear the good news of Jesus Christ.
Romans 10:14-15
“How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?”
Lord, send us to evangelize and share Your message. Amen.
19. A Prayer for the Church’s Healing Ministry:
Lord, we pray for the church’s healing ministry. May it be a place of restoration and recovery for those who are physically, emotionally, and spiritually broken. Use Your servants as instruments of healing, and may Your power be evident in every life touched.
Matthew 9:35
“Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness.”
Lord, let Your healing touch flow through Your church. Amen.
20. A Prayer for the Church’s Worship Leaders:
Father, we pray for the worship leaders in the church. May they lead with hearts of worship and humility, guiding the congregation into Your presence. May their words and music be a sweet offering to You, drawing all who hear closer to Your heart.
Psalm 95:6
“Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker.”
Lord, bless our worship leaders as they lead us to worship You. Amen.
21. A Prayer for the Church’s Discipleship Programs:
Lord, we lift up the church’s discipleship programs. May they effectively equip believers to grow in their faith and live out the teachings of Jesus Christ. May each participant be transformed by Your word and empowered to serve others.
Matthew 28:19-20
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”
Lord, strengthen our discipleship efforts. Amen.
22. A Prayer for the Church’s Missions Fund:
Father, we pray for the missions fund of the church. May You provide abundantly so that we can continue to support missionaries, local outreach, and projects that spread the gospel. Open the hearts of Your people to give generously.
2 Corinthians 9:7
“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
Lord, bless the church’s missions fund. Amen.
23. A Prayer for the Church’s Fellowship and Community:
Lord, we pray for strong fellowship and unity within the church. May the bonds of love and friendship grow deeper among believers, and may we support each other through trials and triumphs alike. Let Your love be the foundation of our community.
Acts 2:42
“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.”
Lord, help us to build a strong community of believers. Amen.
24. A Prayer for the Church’s Mission to the Marginalized:
Father, we lift up the church’s mission to serve the marginalized, the poor, and the oppressed. May we be a voice for the voiceless and a help to the hurting. Give us the compassion to serve those who are often overlooked by society.
Isaiah 58:10
“If you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday.”
Lord, help us to serve the marginalized in Your name. Amen.
25. A Prayer for the Church’s Spiritual Warfare:
Lord, we pray for strength in the spiritual battles faced by the church. Equip us with the armor of God, and help us to stand firm against the enemy’s attacks. May we remain strong in our faith and victorious through Christ.
Ephesians 6:10-11
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.”
Lord, strengthen us in spiritual warfare. Amen.
26. A Prayer for the Church’s Social Justice Efforts:
Father, we ask for wisdom and courage as the church works for justice and fairness in society. Help us to address issues of inequality, injustice, and discrimination with compassion and a commitment to the truth of Your word.
Micah 6:8
“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
Lord, help us to live out Your justice in our community. Amen.
27. A Prayer for the Church’s Ministry to Families:
God, we pray for the church’s ministry to families. May it be a source of support and encouragement for husbands, wives, and children. Strengthen families in their walk with You and help them to grow together in love and faith.
Joshua 24:15
“But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”
Lord, strengthen the families in Your church. Amen.
28. A Prayer for the Church’s Revival Through Prayer:
Lord, we ask for a mighty revival of prayer in Your church. Stir the hearts of Your people to pray fervently, seeking Your face and interceding on behalf of others. May the church be a house of prayer and a place of deep communion with You.
Luke 18:1
“Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.”
Lord, revive our passion for prayer. Amen.
29. A Prayer for the Church’s Compassionate Outreach:
Father, we pray for the church’s compassionate outreach to those in need. May we extend Your love to the poor, the sick, and the lonely. Help us to meet practical needs and share the gospel of salvation with those who are hurting.
Matthew 25:35-36
“For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.”
Lord, help us to serve others with compassion. Amen.
Conclusion
In finality, intercessory prayer for the church contributes very vital areas of its spiritual health and growth. It equips a believer to be powerful in the hands of God while standing in the gap for the needs of a church in His sight through strong prayer. Prayer enables one to draw close to God’s heart for His church and to ask Him to bless, protect, and enliven it for the fulfillment of its purposes in the world. Those faces of challenges in churches be they spiritual warfare, societal pressures, or personal struggles, can only be handled through God’s intervention, which we get through prayer.
We intercede for the church, performing the work of the kingdom of God, bringing His will to pass on earth as it is in heaven. Intercessory prayers include asking for blessings not limited to asking wisdom, discernment, and strength for church leaders to house the unity of the congregation and share the gospel to those who don’t yet know Christ. The church is alive, as a breathing organism, consisting of people who require never-ending prayer and support to walk in the way that God has set before them.
So let us commit ourselves for regular intercession, believing that God will surely hear our prayers and will answer for them according to His perfect will. When the church prays, heaven’s gates open and unleash God’s power. Trust that as we pray for the church, the same God’s hand will move mightily, and His name will be glorified in all things. Intercessory prayer is a key part of moving the kingdom of God forward by seeing His will done on earth. May we, therefore, continue interceding in faith for the church, knowing God is faithful to answering our prayers.
