As we see the images pouring in from the war-torn areas of Ukraine and in regions where warfare isn’t covered as thoroughly, in areas like Ethiopia, it can be overwhelming to try to determine how best to help those caught in those situations. As you consider contributing to vetted organizations who are helping provide resources to those fleeing war-torn areas and those trapped within, also consider taking some time to speak the following prayers from World Vision over the innocent people who are navigating such treacherous times:

Dear Lord,
Bring hope to children and families who have lost everything to conflict in Ukriane, Ethiopia, Syria, Lebanon, and Southern Sudan. May they find peace in You and courage to rebuild their lives and country. God, please protect those who’ve fled their homes, especially children, the elderly, and people who are disabled, as they’re among the most vulnerable. We ask in Your name to restore communities, reunite families, and repair this country.

From Martin Luther College:

O Lord God of infinite mercy, we humbly implore You to look down on the nations now engaged in war. Do not count Your people’s sins against them, but grant them true repentance, that the lusts of the human heart may be conquered by Your Spirit of gentleness and righteousness. Look in mercy on those immediately exposed to peril. Comfort the prisoners, relieve the sufferings of the wounded, and show mercy to the dying. According to Your good and gracious will, remove the causes and occasions of this war, and restore peace among the nations; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

Almighty God, You alone are our strong Defender, and ever-present help in time of trouble. Watch over and defend our military personnel, and all others who defend our life and liberty, that they may serve justly and honorably in the pursuit of peace. Grant them courage and strength in their time of service, and bring them safely home to their families and communities; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

And consider making the following verses part of your devotional time as you lift up the plight of people around the world:

In that day I will also make a covenant for them
With the beasts of the field,
The birds of the sky
And the creeping things of the ground.
And I will abolish the bow, the sword and war from the land,
And will make them lie down in safety.

Hosea 2:18

And He will judge between the nations,
And will render decisions for many peoples;
And they will hammer their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks.
Nation will not lift up sword against nation,
And never again will they learn war.

Isaiah 2:4
  1. https://www.worldvision.org/disaster-relief-news-stories/peace-earth-pray-conflict-hot-spots
  2. https://mlc-wels.edu/campus-pastor/prayers-during-war/


Julie Lyles Carr is a best-selling author, podcaster, and entrepreneur living in Austin, Texas, with her husband Mike Carr. They have eight kids, two unfriendly cats, and an antique dachshund.