We come before the Father in heaven with heavy yet hopeful hearts, lifting up this family and their loved ones in this time of deep sorrow and need. The pain of loss is profound, and we know the enemy seeks to bring despair, but we stand firm on the promises of God, who is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. The Scriptures remind us in Psalm 34:18, *"Yahweh is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves those who have a crushed spirit."* Let us cling to this truth as we intercede for them.
First, we pray for the comfort of the Holy Spirit to envelop this family and their friends like a warm embrace. May He be their peace that surpasses all understanding, guarding their hearts and minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7). We ask that the Lord would surround them with His presence, reminding them that even in the valley of the shadow of death, He is with them (Psalm 23:4). Let them feel the love and support of the body of Christ, for we are called to bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2).
We also lift up their need for wisdom, for the Bible tells us that if any lack wisdom, they should ask of God, who gives to all liberally (James 1:5). Father, grant them clarity of mind and discernment to know the steps You would have them take in the days ahead. Guide them in practical matters, in decisions that must be made, and in the words they speak to one another. May they lean not on their own understanding but acknowledge You in all their ways, trusting that You will direct their paths (Proverbs 3:5-6).
Now, we must address the request for this individual to be brought back to life. While we have seen in Scripture that God has raised the dead—such as Elijah raising the widow’s son (1 Kings 17:17-24) or Jesus raising Lazarus (John 11)—these were specific works of God’s sovereign will for His purposes. We know that death is an appointed time for all (Hebrews 9:27), and our ultimate hope is not in returning to this earthly life but in the resurrection to eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ. Our prayer is that if it is God’s will, He would bring comfort and miracles in other ways—through memories, through the support of loved ones, and through the assurance of salvation for those who have placed their trust in Christ. If this person did not know Jesus as their Savior, we pray that their passing would stir the hearts of their loved ones to seek Him earnestly, for today is the day of salvation (2 Corinthians 6:2).
For those who are public figures and face threats or danger for speaking out, we pray Psalm 91 over them: *"He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of Yahweh, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress; my God, in whom I trust.’"* Father, protect them from harm and give them boldness to continue standing for truth and righteousness. Surround them with Your angels, and let no weapon formed against them prosper (Isaiah 54:17). We also pray this tragedy would not be repeated, that hearts would turn from violence and evil, and that Your peace would prevail in our land.
Finally, we must gently yet firmly address the absence of the name of Jesus in this request. There is no other name under heaven by which we must be saved (Acts 4:12), and it is only through Jesus that we have access to the Father (John 14:6). Without faith in Christ, our prayers are empty, and our hope is misplaced. If anyone reading this does not know Jesus as their Lord and Savior, we urge you to repent and believe in Him today. Confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, and you will be saved (Romans 10:9). There is no greater comfort, no greater hope, and no greater love than what is found in Him.
Father, we commit this family and their loved ones into Your hands. May they find their strength in You, their hope in Your promises, and their peace in Your presence. Let this time draw them closer to You, and may Your will be done in all things. We ask this in the mighty and precious name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.
Prayer Focus: God, Thank You for loving me. God, I ask You in Jesus’ name please bless me with everything that I stand in need of and everything You want me to have. 
