There are no words to explain the profound devastation caused by this unforeseen natural disaster. Many are in shock and overwhelmed by feelings of grief resulting from this tragedy. People are attempting to regain a sense of direction and a glimmer of hope to guide them. Maybe you’ve come because you or someone you know was personally affected by the fires in Hawaii, or your heart breaks for those who lost everything. We want to reassure you that, while God did not create this tragedy, He does want to walk alongside you and your loved ones through it. Here are five prayers that you can pray for those affected by the devastating wildfires.
1. The LORD is close to the brokenhearted; He rescues those whose spirits are crushed. – Psalm 34:18 NLT
Dear Lord, words cannot begin to capture the terrible grief and loss that so many people are feeling in the aftermath of such a tragedy. Your Word says that You are close to the brokenhearted. Father, may everyone affected by this tragedy feel Your nearness. Walk them through every single detail of this process. Lord, I ask that You minister to their hearts, bringing healing, wholeness, and hope to them. In Jesus’ name, amen.
2. You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in You, all whose thoughts are fixed on You! – Isaiah 26:3 NLT
Father, it can be difficult to find peace after an event like this. People were lost, houses were destroyed, businesses were wiped out, and so much more. Lord, I pray that Your supernatural peace which goes beyond our natural understanding, permeates the hearts of all affected by this catastrophe. Lord, may Your peace accompany them wherever they go. In Jesus’ name, amen.
3. In His kindness God called you to share in His eternal glory by means of Christ Jesus. So after you have suffered a little while, He will restore, support, and strengthen you, and He will place you on a firm foundation. – 1 Peter 5:10 NLT
God, it’s so simple to look at all the destruction and damage following an unforeseen event like this and wonder where You are in the midst of all the chaos. Lord, I trust that You are always involved even when I might not understand. I ask that You will begin to rebuild and restore what has been lost. Father, I pray that You would make a way even when it appears impossible. Lord, please release provision for the needs that come up during this season of recovery and healing. In Your Son’s name, amen.
4. Each time He said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. – 2 Corinthians 12:9 NLT
Lord, following this crazy situation, I’m sure many feel as though their strength has been depleted. Holy Spirit, I ask that You begin to strengthen everyone who has been affected by this tragedy. Allow them to rely on Your strength rather than their own. Lord, I also pray that when they are weak, Your strength will multiply and carry them through. I pray in Jesus’ name, amen.
5. To all who mourn in Israel, He will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair. In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks that the LORD has planted for His own glory. – Isaiah 61:3 NLT
Jesus, sometimes I forget that You are beside me even while I am in pain and suffering. Father, help me to remember that even in the midst of such sadness, You want to bring about something beautiful. Please remind me that You are working things out for good and that I can trust You even when I can’t see the evidence. Lord let there be a beautiful exchange as it says in Isaiah 61 for all those affected by the Hawaiian fires. In Your name, amen.
