DAILY PRAYERS FOR GUYS

For Grieving Worshipers

Heavenly Father,
Sundays are sacred. Yet, they can be especially hard for those still coping with the loss of a loved one. Church can sometimes serve as a source of grief or pain for those who are reminded of others who used to worship with them, but have now gone to heaven. “Their” spot in the pew or chair may be empty or occupied by someone else. The absence of their unique mannerisms or singing may cause sadness. The way(s) they served are now being carried out by others. While worship after the recent loss of loved ones can be a challenge, make it also a beautifully comforting reminder of why those who are grieving can be certain of where their loved one is. Let Easter hymns and Resurrection references from Scripture serve to ease the sense of loss and gradually replace it with the anticipation of rejoicing at the reunion in heaven. 

In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen. 

DAILY PRAYERS FOR GUYS

For Widows and Widowers

Compassionate Lord,
Look with favor on widows and widowers. Whether their loss was recent or in years past, they understandably experience painful memories and reminders of their loved one. Comfort and console them as they grieve. When they are feeling the ache of loneliness, remind them they are never really alone with you by their side. Additionally, surround them with human connection through family and friends. Where there is the desire for companionship, provide it accordingly. Help widows and widowers adjust to new plans and purposes for them in their lives. Reassure them that they are very much loved, that they matter, and that their lives are no less meaningful without their spouse. Move their churches to support and help them as you call believers to do, and cause neighbors and acquaintances to be present with care and aid whenever needed. Remember them, Lord, and do not let them feel forgotten.

In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen. 

DAILY PRAYERS FOR GUYS

For Compassion Toward Those Experiencing Loss

God Who Cares,
Trouble and tragedy so frequently fill our news feed that we can become disinterested and desensitized. When that happens, our sense of compassion can diminish along with it. We brush over death and lives lost, lacking sympathy for those devastated by such tragic loss. Unconcerned, we don’t spend so much as a passing thought on souls and their eternity. 

Forgive me for being too much in the world, but not of it in all the wrong ways. You have placed me here to grieve with those who grieve. You have uniquely shaped me to show compassion to suffering neighbors and care for saddened strangers. Lord, your heart ached for others who were hurting. Give me that same heart, always willing to pause and be present with others in their loss and grief. And, when appropriate, compel me to point them to the precious hope you provide to all who have experienced loss. 

In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen. 

DAILY PRAYERS FOR GUYS

For Those Struggling After Christmas

Joy of the World,
The day after Christmas can be a sad one for many. It can feel like it serves as the official mark of the holidays coming to a close. With Christmas in the rearview mirror, joy and anticipation quickly fade. No matter the cause, I pray for you to be with all who are down or struggling. The highs of the holidays can usher in difficult lows. Uplift those whose hearts are hurting or spirits are saddened. Turn their gloom to glee with good news and words of encouragement. Brighten their demeanor by fostering a grateful attitude in them, so they become aware of the many reasons they have to give thanks. Ultimately, whenever possible, I pray that you are not only enough for all people, struggling or not, but also that you become the source of their greatest joy.

In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.