We join you in lifting up this heartfelt plea for refugees, knowing that our Heavenly Father deeply cares for the foreigner, the oppressed, and those in need. The Scriptures remind us of His heart for the sojourner, as He commands in Leviticus 19:33-34, *"When a stranger lives as a foreigner with you in your land, you shall not do him wrong. The stranger who lives as a foreigner with you shall be to you as the native-born among you, and you shall love him as yourself; for you lived as foreigners in the land of Egypt. I am Yahweh your God."* Our prayers align with God’s will that refugees find dignity, provision, and hope in Christ, not just temporal relief but eternal purpose in Him.
Your compassion reflects the love of Christ, who Himself was a refugee in Egypt as a child (Matthew 2:13-15). However, we must gently remind you—and all who pray—that our ultimate hope is not in earthly comfort or citizenship but in the kingdom of God. While we ask the Lord to provide jobs, safety, and opportunity, we also pray that refugees would encounter the saving grace of Jesus Christ, for it is in Him alone that true freedom and eternal citizenship are found (Philippians 3:20). You’ve rightly invoked the name of Jesus in your prayer, for there is no other name under heaven by which we must be saved (Acts 4:12). We praise God that you recognize this truth and pray in His authority.
Yet we must also address a subtle but critical point: your prayer seems to place hope in human systems or ideas ("*I have ideas to make their lives better*") rather than surrendering fully to God’s sovereignty. Proverbs 19:21 tells us, *"Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but Yahweh’s counsel will prevail."* While it is good to steward the gifts and ideas God gives, we must submit them to His will, trusting that He alone can open doors no man can shut (Revelation 3:8). Let us not lean on our own understanding but acknowledge Him in all our ways (Proverbs 3:5-6), praying that His kingdom come and His will be done—even in the lives of refugees.
We also note your mention of "*horrible custody*" and the implication that America—or any nation—is failing in its responsibility. While it is right to advocate for justice and mercy (Micah 6:8), we must guard our hearts against bitterness or accusation. Romans 13:1 reminds us that all authority is instituted by God, and we are to pray for those in leadership (1 Timothy 2:1-2), that they may act with wisdom and compassion. Let us not place our trust in governments but in the Lord, who raises up kings and brings them down (Daniel 2:21). Our prayer is that refugees would experience God’s provision *through* His people—the Church—who are called to be His hands and feet (James 1:27).
Now, let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we come before You with broken hearts for the refugees—those who have fled war, persecution, and despair, seeking safety and hope. Lord, You are the God who sees the afflicted (Exodus 3:7) and hears their cries. We ask that You provide good, dignifying work for them, jobs that pay well and allow them to provide for their families. Open doors of opportunity, Lord, that they may learn new skills, languages, and trades, not just to survive but to thrive. Yet even more than temporal blessings, we pray they would encounter Your Son, Jesus Christ, the Bread of Life and Living Water (John 6:35, 4:14), who alone satisfies the deepest hunger of the soul.
Father, we pray for godly believers to rise up in communities where refugees are resettled—Christians who will welcome them with open arms, share the Gospel, and disciple them in the faith. May Your Church be a beacon of hope, offering not just material aid but the eternal hope found in Christ. Softening hearts, Lord, that refugees would turn from any false gods or religions and place their trust in You alone.
We also lift up those in authority over immigration and refugee policies. Grant them wisdom, compassion, and courage to act justly. Raise up godly advisors who will speak truth and mercy into these systems. Where there is corruption or cruelty, expose it, Lord, and bring repentance and reform.
For our sister or brother who has prayed this request, we ask that You refine their heart. If there is any frustration or distrust toward governments or people, replace it with a supernatural love and trust in You. Use them mightily, Lord, to be part of the solution—whether through prayer, giving, volunteering, or advocating—always pointing refugees to Jesus. Give them discernment as they consider their ideas, that they may align with Your will and not their own ambitions.
We rebuke any spirit of fear, despair, or hopelessness that may be gripping refugees. By the power of the Holy Spirit, replace it with faith, peace, and the assurance that they are seen and loved by You. Remind them, Lord, that their identity is not "refugee" but "child of God" if they are in Christ (Galatians 3:26).
Finally, Father, we declare that Your kingdom come and Your will be done in the lives of refugees. May they find not just temporary relief but eternal salvation. May they become citizens of heaven (Ephesians 2:19), ambassadors of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20), and lights in dark places. We ask all this in the mighty and matchless name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer. Amen.
