Simple, Biblically Rooted Prayers for Families and Churches
When someone we love is in the middle of a mental health crisis, it can leave us feeling powerless. We want to help, but we don’t always know what to say. Sometimes, all we can do is pray—and yet prayer is not “just” something. It is one of the most powerful ways to stand in the gap.
The Bible tells us that the Spirit Himself intercedes for us in our weakness (Romans 8:26). That means even when our words feel inadequate, God hears the cries of our hearts. But He also equips us with Scripture and simple prayers that bring comfort, peace, and hope into moments of chaos.
Here are some ways to pray for someone in crisis, whether you are a parent, a friend, or part of their church community.
1. Pray for Peace in the Storm
Crisis often feels like chaos. Anxiety, fear, or suicidal thoughts can overwhelm both the person and their loved ones. In those moments, pray for God’s peace to surround them.
Prayer:
“Lord, You are the Prince of Peace. Right now, [Name] feels overwhelmed. Please calm their mind and body. Surround them with Your peace that surpasses understanding (Phil. 4:7). Guard their heart and mind in Christ Jesus.”
2. Pray for Protection from Lies
Mental health crises often come with lies: “I’m worthless,” “No one cares,” “Things will never get better.” These are not just psychological distortions—they’re also spiritual attacks. Pray for God’s truth to silence the lies.
Prayer:
“Father, You are the God of truth. Silence the lies that say [Name] is worthless. Replace them with Your truth—that they are fearfully and wonderfully made (Ps. 139:14), loved with an everlasting love (Jer. 31:3), and chosen by You (Eph. 1:4). Protect their mind from deception.”
3. Pray for Strength to Keep Going
Crisis moments can leave a person exhausted and ready to give up. Pray for daily strength and endurance.
Prayer:
“Lord, You give strength to the weary and power to the weak (Isa. 40:29). Give [Name] the courage to take one more step today. Remind them they are not alone and that You will never leave or forsake them (Heb. 13:5).”
4. Pray for Wisdom for Helpers
In crisis, family, friends, clinicians, and pastors all play a role. Pray for wisdom, discernment, and compassion for everyone involved.
Prayer:
“God of all wisdom, guide those who are caring for [Name]. Give counselors clarity, doctors insight, and loved ones patience. Show each person how to respond in ways that bring safety and hope. Let Your Spirit lead every decision.”
5. Pray for Hope to Rise Again
Hopelessness is one of the strongest markers of suicidal thinking. Pray that hope—the anchor of the soul (Heb. 6:19)—would rise in their heart again.
Prayer:
“Lord of hope, breathe fresh hope into [Name]’s spirit. Remind them that darkness does not have the final word (John 1:5). Let them see even a small light today, and may that light grow brighter with each passing day.”
6. Pray for Healing and Restoration
Mental health crises often expose deep wounds—emotional, relational, or spiritual. Pray for God’s healing and restoration to work over time.
Prayer:
“Great Physician, bring healing to [Name]. Heal wounds of the past, restore relationships, and renew their mind (Rom. 12:2). Give them joy in place of despair, and beauty in place of ashes (Isa. 61:3).”
Practical Tips for Families and Churches
- Pray out loud if invited. For many in crisis, hearing words of prayer brings comfort. But always ask first.
- Keep prayers short and simple. In crisis, long prayers can overwhelm. A few heartfelt sentences are enough.
- Pair prayer with action. Prayer is powerful, but it does not replace safety planning, professional help, or medical care. Pray and act.
- Stay consistent. Pray daily, not just during the crisis. Let the person know you are faithfully interceding for them.
Why Prayer Matters in Crisis
Prayer does not always remove the crisis immediately. But it does invite God’s presence into the situation, strengthen the hearts of caregivers, and remind the person in crisis that they are not alone. Prayer shifts the atmosphere—from despair toward hope, from chaos toward peace, from isolation toward connection.
And perhaps most importantly, prayer aligns us with God’s heart: He is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit (Ps. 34:18).
Final Encouragement
If you are walking with someone in a mental health crisis, do not underestimate the power of prayer. It is not a last resort—it is a lifeline. Prayer does not replace professional care, but it strengthens every other part of the healing journey.
Whether you are a parent crying out for your child, a church member supporting a friend, or a counselor silently interceding after a session, know this: your prayers are heard, and they matter.
The darkness may feel overwhelming, but the light of Christ is greater. Every prayer pushes back the lies and calls forth truth, life, and hope.
✨ At North Pointe Services, we believe in counseling that integrates both clinical care and the hope of prayer. If you or someone you love is in crisis, reach out. Help is available, and you don’t have to walk alone.
