Guided Prayer

Sickness or Physical Pain

One · Pause

Be still for a moment. Breathe in slowly, and out slowly — three times. There is no hurry here, and no one is watching.

Be still, and know that I am God.

Psalm 46:10 · KJV

Two · Check in

How is your body today? What hurts most?

Three · Scripture · King James Version

Heal me, O LORD, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved: for thou art my praise.

Jeremiah 17:14 · KJV

The LORD will strengthen him upon the bed of languishing: thou wilt make all his bed in his sickness.

Psalm 41:3 · KJV

Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;

Psalm 103:2–3 · KJV

Four · Reflection

Scripture prays boldly for healing and also honors God's presence in long illness. Pain is not a verdict on your faith.

Five · Pray this

Lord, heal me, and if healing is slow, sustain me. Strengthen me on this bed of languishing. Give the doctors and caregivers wisdom, and give me peace in my body and mind. In Jesus' name, amen.

Six · Now in your own words

Tell God exactly where it hurts and what you are afraid of.

Seven · Private journal

What my body needs, what I am afraid of, and what I am grateful for today.

Eight · One practical step

Keep your medical care going — appointments, medication, rest — and let someone help you.

Before you go

Prayer is not a substitute for medical care. Seeking treatment is wise, and God is with you either way. Unanswered prayer never means you lacked faith.