A Call to Prayer for The Most Vulnerable

In light of the planned cuts announced to the UK’s overseas development funding, we invite you to join us in prayer for those who are already suffering so much. While there are a range of views on international aid spending, there’s no doubt that the decision to cut funding will have a significant impact.

Right now, 333 million children live in extreme poverty. Every day, more than 13,000 children under the age of five die due to largely preventable causes. Families struggling to survive face immense challenges, and for many, access to support funded by international development from countries like the UK is the difference between life and death.

As followers of Christ, we’re called to advocate for the vulnerable and those who are suffering, and to take action. We can do this by giving our time, our resources, and through the power of prayer.

Let these prayers serve as a starting point, especially in light of the recent cuts to USAID and the UK government’s decision to reduce overseas development funding. Consider gathering with your church or home group for a time of united prayer.

1. For children and families experiencing extreme poverty

Loving Father, you see every child who suffers, every family struggling to survive. We lift them before you, asking for your provision, protection, and hope. We long for a world that has fairer structures, where resources are shared so that no one is left in desperation.

Comfort and provide for those who are hungry and sick and feel forgotten. We pray that aid and resources will reach those who need them most.

May each child and person in extreme need know they’re seen, loved, and valued by you, no matter their circumstances.

“The Lord is close to the broken-hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18

2. For governments and leaders

Lord, we pray for wisdom for those in positions of power. Guide governments and leaders around the world to seek the common good, to be peacemakers, and to act with compassion and justice. May their decisions reflect your heart for the oppressed and lead to policies that prioritise the dignity and well-being of all people.

“This is what the Lord Almighty said: ‘Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another. Do not oppress the widow or the fatherless, the foreigner or the poor. Do not plot evil against each other.’” Zechariah 7:9-10

3. For churches and organisations offering support

Lord, we pray for churches, charities, and organisations seeking to serve those in need, especially those affected by funding cuts. Grant them wisdom in stewarding resources for maximum impact. Encourage those making difficult decisions, and bless the work of their hands as they provide relief, development, and hope in the name of Jesus.

We thank you for the dedication and sacrificial love of our church partners around the world, who work tirelessly to make a difference in their communities.

“And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” 2 Corinthians 9:8

4. For ourselves as Christians

Father, shape our hearts to reflect yours. Help us remain faithful in prayer, patient in times of affliction, and steadfast in love. May we not be overcome by fear, but instead, trust in you as we seek to be generous givers.

Remind us that all we have is from you and is meant to be used in service to others. Teach us to love as the Good Samaritan did, moving with compassion and taking action for those in need, even when it’s costly.

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

Amen.

• Compassion doesn’t currently receive any funding from the UK government. However, you can read about the amazing impact of our UKAid match-funded project in Togo here. Between 2019-2022, the project exceeded all its targets for the mums and babies who participated, improving full-term pregnancies, healthy birth weights and breast-feeding support.