A PRAYER FOR REFUGEES THIS WORLD REFUGEE DAY

As the worst refugee crisis since the Second World War continues, we want to join with Christians globally to pray.

A United Nations report explains that at the end of 2023, 117.3 million people worldwide were forcibly displaced as a result of persecution, conflict, violence and human rights violations. This is a record high, and an increase from 108.4 million people at the end of 2022. Among them it’s estimated that 40 per cent are under the age of 18.

At Compassion we care deeply about the world’s children. We’re passionate about seeing justice for the most vulnerable. Although we don’t work in Syria, South Sudan or Afghanistan where 52% of the world’s refugees come from, we want to raise our voices in prayer.

HOW TO PRAY FOR REFUGEES AND MIGRANTS

Take a moment out of your day today to pray for the millions affected:

Pray for refugees

Remember those making perilous journeys, fleeing from conflict and persecution. Pray particularly for children travelling in extremely dangerous conditions.

Pray for the governments involved

Pray for wisdom for all those in authority who make decisions that impact refugees. Pray for leaders to tackle the root causes of the refugee crisis.

Pray that countries in crisis would know stability

Ask God to bring stability in the countries men, women and children are fleeing from. Pray for Syria, Afghanistan, Eritrea, Somalia, Nigeria, Libya, Ukraine, Israel-Gaza and other affected nations.

Pray for communities and organisations helping refugees 

Lift up organisations, churches and communities who are working tirelessly to care for refugees. Pray they would be given wisdom and energy as they respond to families and children in great need.

BIBLE VERSES ABOUT REFUGEES

Galatians 5:14 “For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbour as yourself.”

Leviticus 19:33-34 “‘When a foreigner resides among you in your land, do not mistreat them. The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt. I am the Lord your God.”

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.”

Hebrews 13:16 “And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.”

Sources: UN Refugee Agency