Pain is my constant companion. It greets me early, stays with me late, and affects every single thing in my life. But prayer makes dealing with the disappointments of chronic pain and illness easier to bear. It is my lifeline, tethering me to Jesus and His peace. Sometimes brain fog makes it hard for me to focus when I pray, so having prayer partners is such a blessing!
If you have chronic pain and illness or know someone who does, the very best thing you can do for them is to pray. You may not know what to ask God for, other than healing, of course, and they may not articulate exactly what they need prayers for. So it’s important to be in tune with the Spirit and follow His lead as you intercede for them in prayer.
Instead of throwing out random “heal and help them” prayers, try to cover your friend or family member with prayers in these three areas that those with chronic pain commonly struggle with- family, finances, and their feelings.
Pray for the family of someone with chronic pain
I have the best family. My husband knows when I need rest and sees to it I take it, without making me feel guilty about it. He helps me have discernment about choosing the opportunities and obligations that are set before me so that I don’t take on more than I can handle. And my kids take up the slack for the chores that I can’t do anymore. They are a tremendous blessing.
But not everyone with chronic pain has a support system like that. Their family may not understand their condition, may place unrealistic expectations on them, and shame them for their inability to perform as desired. They may resent the financial burden that accompanies chronic pain and illness.
Family members often feel helpless and frustrated because they can’t fix their loved one. They might feel neglected because the person with the ailments gets all the attention. We can intercede on their behalf as well and ask God to guard their hearts and give them special grace.
Since we never truly know what happens behind closed doors, we should pray for the family of the person with chronic pain. They may not express it, but they need their family to show compassion, love them unconditionally, and be supportive and kind as they battle their disabilities.
Sample prayer for the family of someone with chronic pain:
Dear Lord,
I bring _____ and their family before your throne of grace right now. You see, hear, and know all the details of their disabilities and family dynamics. I pray that you would have mercy on this family, Lord. Help each one of them to love and trust you, and to cling to your word as a guidebook for how to respond to these trying times. Give them understanding and compassion with each other. Help them resist the devil’s devices and have joy and unity despite their circumstances. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Pray for the finances of someone with chronic pain
The financial burden of chronic pain and illness can be a heavy one to bear. Diagnosing, treating, and checking the progression are all very expensive. The strain on the finances causes worry and stress that just compounds the problems of the suffering. But this may not be something someone with sickness will share with others.
Sample prayer for the finances of someone with chronic pain:
Father God,
Thank you for always being a faithful provider. You love and take care of all the needs of your sheep, and for that, we are so grateful. I pray for ______________ and their finances, Lord. You know the medical expenses they have because of their chronic pain, and you know their every need. Reveal your ability to go above and beyond all they could ask or think. Show your great and mighty power to work miracles and provide for them in ways that only you can, to increase their faith during these trying times. For your glory, their good, and the benefit of others, I ask this in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Prayer for the feelings of someone with chronic pain
Being in constant pain is exhausting, and it makes me emotional. On the really hard days, I need my prayer partners to pray for my feelings to be directed by the truth of scripture, and the Spirit of God, so I don’t say or do things I will regret later.
I need prayer to help me be sober-minded and Spirit-filled during my difficult circumstances.
Prayer often brings peace, hope, and strength to my weary heart, even if the feelings of physical pain don’t subside.
Sample prayer for the feelings of someone with chronic pain:
Father of kindness,
I bring ________ before your throne of grace right now, asking that your Spirit would guard their heart. I pray your truth would guide their thoughts. May the words of their mouth and the meditation of their heart be pleasing in your eyes, Lord. Help _______ to be sober-minded in their suffering and bring you glory despite how they feel. Fill them, filter them, and focus them on what truly matters. You know how they feel. You are acquainted with sorrow. Hold them up when they feel too weak to walk. Strengthen them to serve you with gladness and come before your presence with singing. I ask for special grace for _______ today, knowing that you hear me and answer my prayers according to your perfect will. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
A simple prayer for pain relief
Maybe you are the one suffering right now, and simply don’t know how to pray for pain relief. There are no magic words or specific formula for healing. Prayer is just talking to God as you would a friend. He loves you and wants the best for you, and He is always listening.
Here is a simple prayer for pain relief that also expresses faith in the sovereignty of God and exalts Him as Lord.
Gracious and Merciful Father,
You know the plans you have for me, the time I have left on this earth, and the things I will suffer for your name’s sake. You see what I don’t and have a purpose for my pain. Even now, you are working all things together for my good, the good of others, and for your glory. Help me be patient, to trust that you know what is best for me, and to cling to Christ instead of trying to escape through fleshly devices. You are my refuge, my rock, and my Redeemer. My heart and flesh may fail, but you are my strength and portion forever. I pray you would heal me of my infirmities according to your will. Grant your servant relief from these afflictions so that I might serve you without distraction. I love you, Lord, and I believe in your power to heal me. But if it is not your will at this time, then help me endure this suffering joyfully, patiently, and full of faith. In the precious name of Jesus, I pray, Amen.
There are so many ways to pray for someone with chronic pain and illness, besides healing, or their family, finances, and feelings, so don’t feel limited to those categories of need. Pray however the Spirit leads you to!
Ephesians 6:18 KJV ~ Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.
More posts on prayer or chronic pain:
A Day in the Life of a Christian with Chronic Pain
3 Keys to Helping Someone with Depression
18 Psalms for a Sober Mind in Suffering
The Importance of Intercessory Prayer
3 Reasons Prayer is Essential for Your Spiritual Growth
Focus on What Matters in Suffering
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Pray With Confidence
If you would like to grow in your prayer life, then check out Pray with Confidence. It’s a website for helping women overcome prayer obstacles, and I am one of the regular contributors. Here are some articles I wrote that will renew your mind and strengthen your prayer life:
3 Short Prayers for Spiritual Stability
When Your Prayer for Pain Relief Goes Unanswered
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As someone who deals with chronic illness and pain, I have to say that these prayers are spot on in terms of the needs we experience. Thank you for inspiring me to pray more completely for friends and family who are also impacted. Blessings!
Praise the Lord! I’m praying for you, my friend! 🙂