9 Ways to Pray for Children in Poverty

Around the world, millions of children face challenges no child should have to carry. Poverty can affect their health, safety, relationships and hopes for the future.

Yet we believe every child is known and loved by God. Through their local church, family and community, each child can be supported, encouraged and given the opportunities they need to flourish.

That's why we invite you to join us in praying for children living in poverty. Bring their needs before God. Pray for protection, hope and opportunity. Ask that they would know they are loved and valued, and that they would experience his care in every area of their lives.

As you pray, thank God for the families, local churches and Compassion staff who faithfully support children every day. Ask him to strengthen and equip them as they continue serving their communities and sharing his love.

Meeting children’s basic needs

‘And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.’ Philippians 4:19

Kauany family

Pray for food and clean water 

When families lack access to basic needs like nutritious food and safe water, the effects can reach every area of a child's life. Poverty can make it harder for children to stay healthy, attend school and feel safe. It can also leave them more vulnerable to exploitation, violence and child marriage.

Ask God to provide enough food and clean water for every child, and to bless efforts that help children, families and communities thrive.

Pray for healthcare 

Every child deserves to grow up healthy and strong. Yet many children and their families face barriers to accessing the healthcare they need. From supporting mothers during pregnancy to treating illness and preventing disease, healthcare plays a vital role in helping children thrive.

Ask God to protect mothers and babies, and to ensure children receive the health and medical care they need at every stage of life.

Pray for Compassion projects and staff 

Through local churches all across the world, staff, volunteers and Compassion graduates are investing their time, skills and care into the next generation. Their work helps children experience practical support, loving relationships and hope for the future.

Ask God to provide the wisdom, energy and resources the staff and volunteers need to serve with perseverance and joy. Pray also for children who are still waiting for support, that they would be reached through local churches and given every opportunity to thrive.

Amina with photo of her younger self

“At the Compassion project, my life started to change. I received food and clothes, and over time I began to look healthy. But that’s not all; my confidence grew too.” Amina, Rwanda

Helping children belong

‘God sets the lonely in families.’ Psalm 68:6

Minita mother to Kohima with her baby Joy

Pray for families

Children thrive when they’re surrounded by loving and supportive carers. Parents and caregivers often make great sacrifices to provide for their children, even while facing significant challenges of their own.

Ask God to protect and strengthen families. Pray that parents and caregivers would feel supported in their vital role and experience God's love, guidance and provision each day.

Pray for God’s love

Every child needs to know they are loved. Whatever challenges they face, children flourish when they grow up confident that they are known, valued and treasured. God's love can bring hope, healing and a secure sense of identity, even in the hardest circumstances.

Ask God to help every child discover how deeply they are loved by him. Pray that they would grow in confidence, hope and a sense of their God-given worth.

Pray for community

Children thrive when they know they belong. Supportive relationships help children and young people to grow in confidence, discover their strengths and feel valued for who they are. Through Compassion's local church partners, children are welcomed into communities where they can build friendships, receive encouragement and develop their God-given potential.

Ask God to help every child feel known, loved and included. Pray that they’d find their place in a supportive community where their gifts can be recognised, nurtured and celebrated.

God gives us the wisdom to know the right path and gives us the strength to walk in it

“God always provides. Just when we think we’ve come to the end, God opens a way. We’re deeply grateful for the local church and project staff.” Janneth, Connie’s mum, Honduras.

Giving children opportunities

‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’ Jeremiah 29:11

School in Burkina Faso

Pray for education

Education equips children with knowledge, skills and opportunities that can shape their future. Thank God for the sponsors who help make education accessible and for the schools and teachers investing in the next generation.

Ask God to help children enjoy learning and to flourish in the classroom. Pray for strength, wisdom and encouragement for teachers as they support and guide their pupils each day.

Pray for hope for the future

Every child deserves to look to the future with hope and confidence. Yet poverty can limit opportunities and make it harder for children to imagine a different path for their lives. Through education, training and encouragement, children can discover their potential and develop the skills they need to thrive.

Ask God to give children courage to dream big, confidence in their God-given abilities and opportunities to pursue their goals. Pray for access to education, apprenticeships, training and employment that can help young people build secure futures. Give thanks for the many Compassion graduates who are now using their gifts to strengthen and transform their communities.

Pray for safe places to play

Play is far more than a break from learning, it’s a vital part of how children learn, grow and develop. Yet poverty can place heavy burdens on children, leaving them with fewer opportunities to simply enjoy being young.

Ask God to give children the time, space and freedom to play. Pray for Compassion's local church partners as they create safe, welcoming environments where children can build friendships, develop new skills and experience the joy of childhood.

Somdet and Tanawchi in a playground in Thailand

“I’ve never been so happy like this before. I play here every day with my friends and we love playing on a rocking horse. And I wish that we will have more playground rides.” Somdet, Thailand.

Thank you for joining us in prayer.

Every prayer is an expression of love, standing alongside children and families as they face life's challenges. As you continue to pray, may you be encouraged by the knowledge that God knows every child by name and cares deeply about their future.