Hurricane Ida has placed Louisiana and much of the east coast in an ongoing state of emergency with significant damage and devastation. Ida is reported to be the second most intense hurricane to hit Louisiana since the last island hurricane in 1856, after Hurricane Katrina. The people of Louisiana and the East Coast who are also affected by this storm need our prayers, support and kindness during this time.
1. Prayers for those on the path of Ida
Father God
We come together to pray for those who are living on the path of Hurricane Ida. Lord, we remember the Hurricane Katrina tribute to the great state of Louisiana. We remember the agony so many suffered when their homes were destroyed and human lives were lost; Lord, we pray that we would not see the same result on Hurricane Ida. We pray Father for those who stand in the way of this storm. We pray that the storm will lose its momentum and strength and that it will dissipate quickly. We pray for those on his path for protection from all harm and for the opportunity to find a safe place. Lord, for those who are anxious or in need during this storm, we pray John 14:27 for the peace that only you can give: “Peace I leave with you; I give you my peace. Not as the world gives, I give to you. ”The threat is there, but peace can be found through you. We pray that this storm will subside today in the name of Jesus and that those who stand in its path will be saved from harm.
In Jesus name
Amen
2. Prayers for the injured or killed and their families
Father God
As of September 1, it was reported that four people had lost their lives in this storm, and it truly pains us. Father, we pray for their souls and we pray for those they leave behind. Please comfort the families who have lost loved ones. Please give them your strength as they try to put their lives back on track after this storm. May the words at Psalm 147: 3 be our prayer for them in their grief: “He heals the broken and binds their wounds.” Lord, we pray for the injured too. We know so many are in recovery, and Lord, we know this storm is not over yet. We sincerely pray that no one will be injured and no more lives will be lost while this storm continues. You are our healer, our Comforter and our Savior and that is why we come to you in prayer for healing, protection and recovery from all that this storm brought forth.
In Jesus name
Amen
3. Prayers for first responders and healthcare professionals
Father God
We pick up the first responders and those called to action at this time. Our first responders and healthcare workers have worked tirelessly during the pandemic, and with natural disasters on top of that, we know it can be daunting and overwhelming. Lord, please give them supernatural power, nourishment and abilities through your spirit. Help us give them the best possible support and remember to thank them for their service. Please stay in them and give them the strength to move on. Please put it in the hearts of those available and able to travel to these places Ida met to help. Lord, please bless these selfless and compassionate hearts who do so much for the people in our churches and in our great land. Give them wisdom as they navigate what it is like to care for and treat their patients, and convey as much understanding as you can of how to help so many people at once. We raise each and every one of them to you today.
In Jesus name
Amen
4. Prayers for those who have suffered loss or damage to property
Father God
We pray for those who have suffered damage to property and property. Home is a haven that should be a safe place, a resting place, and for so many, we can never imagine our home and property being ravaged by a storm. For those who are now experiencing this devastation, we raise it up in prayer. Please provide the help and support they urgently need from neighbors, friends and family. Please ensure that resources and supplies are readily and quickly available to them as they begin to rebuild their lives. Give them courage and strength emotionally, physically, and spiritually as they navigate the next days and weeks. May they feel your spirit on them when they enter this time of rebuilding. We also pray, Lord, that those in need will be provided with clean drinking water, food, and energy. After these storms, these essentials often run short, so we pray now that everyone will have access to what they need to survive.
In Jesus name
Amen
5. Prayers for recovery and rebuilding
Father God
We come together to pray for recovery and rebuilding during this time. Whenever there is a natural disaster or tragedy it can get so easy to feel down in your mind, but we know you are still on the throne, Lord. We pray for those affected by this storm to find refuge with you. We pray as they watch to rebuild their lives, homes, and communities that they will be gently reminded that you are seeing them and that you will take care of them. Please provide them with prompt assistance, assistance, and resources during this recovery time. Put it on the hearts of those who can give money, time, building materials, supplies, or a lending hand to come forward. Lord, in the book of Acts we remember the early Church and how they sold property and possessions to give to everyone who needed them. They continued to meet in the temple courtyards every day. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with happy and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number those who were saved daily (Acts 2: 45-47). As the early Churches came together to support and serve one another, we pray that those in the Body of Christ, the Church of today, will feel called to do the same in the Christian community. Lord, we pray for unity and kindness to remain in your name through your church during this difficult time.
In Jesus name
Amen
Hurricane Ida left Louisiana and parts of the east coast in dire straits. Together, as the body of Christ, we can come together through prayer, financial support, and handouts to help our brothers and sisters in their troubled times. Let us humbly come before God and ask how we can be the hands and feet of Christ at this time.
Photo credit: © Getty Images / Mario Tama / Staff
Cally Logan is a writer and US history teacher based in Richmond, Virginia. In her spare time, she enjoys leading a small group of high school girls, cooking, and spending time in tree houses. Your latest books, Dear young sparrow and Revealed are available from Amazon and Barnes and Noble. Check them out on Instagram and Twitter, @CallyLogan.