Prayer for Strength in Difficult Times
Holding on to God through loss, crisis, and uncertainty
Morning Prayer editorial team · Updated: November 2026
Some seasons bring one blow after another. This prayer does not pretend things are fine. It brings the hard truth to God and asks Him to hold you steady until the storm passes.
Let us pray
Lord, these are difficult days. I will not pretend otherwise, because You already know. The ground I thought was solid has shifted, and I am not sure what will come next.
You know the specifics: the loss, the diagnosis, the bills, the broken relationship, the fear that sits in my chest when I wake up. I lay them all before You. I do not have a solution, so I bring You the problem itself.
Give me strength for this season. Not the strength to pretend I am fine, but the strength to keep going honestly. Strength to make the next phone call. Strength to ask for help. Strength to get through today and trust You with tomorrow.
When I am tempted to believe that You have forgotten me, remind me of Your promises. You said You would never leave me or forsake me. You said that those who mourn would be comforted. You said that nothing could separate me from Your love. I am holding on to those words with both hands.
Send me people who will stand with me. Let me recognize Your help even when it comes in forms I did not expect.
And Lord, when this difficult time is over, let me remember how You carried me, so that I can tell others and carry them in turn. Until then, be my rock and my refuge. Amen.
Blessing
May the Lord be your refuge in the storm and your strength until the morning comes.
How to pray this prayer
- Find a quiet moment and breathe slowly.
- Read the prayer aloud or in your heart.
- Add your own intention before the Amen.
Frequently asked questions
Is it okay to tell God how hard things really are?
Yes. The Psalms are full of raw honesty before God. He is not offended by our pain. Honest prayer is the beginning of real comfort.
What else can I do besides pray during a crisis?
Prayer and practical help belong together. Reach out to a friend, a priest, or a counselor. Accepting help from others is often how God answers the prayer for strength.
Can I pray this for a friend going through a hard time?
Yes. Change the words to speak for them, or send them the prayer. Knowing someone is praying is itself a source of strength.
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