National Day of Prayer is a non-denominational observance that encourages Christians across the United States to join together in prayer and meditation. Signed into law by president Harry Truman, the day was officially established by Congress in 1952. National Day of Prayer is observed on the first Thursday in the month of May, and is an opportunity to seek divine guidance, wisdom, healing, and strength for our nation.
National Day of Prayer can be observed individually or with others. Oftentimes local church congregations will gather together to pray about different topics. Here is a list of topics, verses, and prayers to use for National Day of Prayer.
How to Prepare for National Day of Prayer
While your local community may have different areas that need prayer (e.g. local government issues, community concerns/decisions, etc.), many gatherings for National Day of Prayer cover some or all of the following:
- The nation as a whole
- The nation’s leadership
- Local government leadership
- Wisdom
- Peace
- Unity
- Spiritual revival or awakening
Prayers & Verses for National Day of Prayer
If you need help getting started, use the prayers and verses below as a guide to pray for our nation this National Day of Prayer.
1. A Prayer for our Nation
Heavenly Father, we want to see your name glorified across the United States. We ask that You place Your hand of protection upon us as we seek Your face. Bless us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and He will give you everything you need. – Matthew 6:33 NLT
2. A Prayer for Leadership
Dear Lord, be with our leadership as they navigate tough decisions. Give them grace and mercy to do what is best for the nation. Give them strength to walk in righteousness. Amen.
And work for the peace and prosperity of the city where I sent you into exile. Pray to the LORD for it, for its welfare will determine your welfare. – Jeremiah 29:7 NLT
3. A Prayer for Local Government
Merciful God, help our local leaders to do what is best for the community. As they make decisions, remind them of what is most helpful to the people who live here. Amen.
He chose capable men from all over Israel and appointed them as leaders over the people. He put them in charge of groups of one thousand, one hundred, fifty, and ten. – Exodus 18:25 NLT
4. A Prayer for Wisdom
Almighty God, we need Your wisdom as a nation. Reveal Your truth to us and help us follow You in faith by the power of the Spirit. Thank You for giving us wisdom when we ask. Amen.
If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and He will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. – James 1:5 NLT
5. A Prayer for Peace
Prince of Peace, grant us serenity amidst the chaos of this world. You are in control of it all and we trust that You are at work. Be glorified now and forever. In Your name we pray, amen.
May God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace. – Galatians 1:3 NLT
6. A Prayer for Unity
Yahweh, we look to You as the perfect picture of unity. Help us to endeavor to be one nation under Your name. Remove walls of division and build bridges of connectivity. Amen.
This will continue until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God’s Son that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ. – Ephesians 4:13 NLT
7. A Pray for Spiritual Revival
Creator God, we ask that hearts would turn to You. Bring revival and awakening to our nation. Remind us of our need for You. Give us the strength to say no to sin and yes to You. Amen.
Then if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land. – 2 Chronicles 7:14 NLT
