… for I was hungry, and you gave me food to eat. I was thirsty, and you gave me drink. I was a stranger, and you took me in. I was naked, and you clothed me. I was sick, and you visited me. I was in prison, and you came to me.’
Matthew 25:35-36 World English Bible
Reflection
Civil institutions provide necessary social programs, yet bureaucracy alone cannot mend a broken spirit or offer personal hope. Local congregations step into places of deep distress, offering practical compassion to individuals facing poverty, isolation, or incarceration. Ask God to give believers wisdom, stamina, and resources to walk alongside suffering neighbours. Pray that communities find tangible support and spiritual restoration through dedicated pastoral care and community outreach.
Prayer
Pray that the church would take its place and bring good news to the poor, heal the brokenhearted, announce freedom for the captives and bring release for those imprisoned. We can't leave it all to government especially when we know how important it is to the Father to take care of the poor and the broken hearted.
This prayer point first appeared in NHOP's prayer strategy for 19 October 2023.