Yoder: Haley’s Prayer Requests

By Kathy Yoder

I don’t have a daughter, but my three nieces—Bethany and Melody in Colorado, and Haley near Des Moines—are cherished blessings. I’ve watched them grow into remarkable women, each unique and dear to my heart. As a devoted aunt, I pray regularly for them and their families.

Recently, I asked Haley how I could pray for her community in Des Moines, Iowa’s capital. Her requests, while rooted in her city, echo the hopes and needs of families everywhere. From the front porches of Mississippi to the sometimes bustling and other times sleepy streets of Iowa.

As part of a team praying for Iowa, I’m honored to lift up these concerns to God, trusting His promise in Matthew 18:20: “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” Here are Haley’s prayer requests, grouped by theme, to guide our intercession for all communities.

Community Needs

Haley’s heart for Des Moines reflects the needs of any thriving town, like those in DeSoto County, where families lean on faith and fellowship.

• Economic growth: Economic stability is vital, as history reminds us. I once found a 1923 German bill, worth 100 million marks, tucked inside an old book on World War II. During Germany’s hyperinflation, it couldn’t buy a loaf of bread. Heavenly Father, strengthen our economy to support families and businesses. Guide our leaders to make wise, compassionate choices, as Proverbs 3:5-6 urges: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight.”
• Homeless and refugees: Haley asked, “Help the homeless and newer refugees who call Des Moines home.” Lord, you call us to love our neighbors as ourselves (Mark 12:31). Show us how to welcome those in need with open hearts and show us how to offer solutions.
• Clean water: Clean water is a global concern, even in places facing drought. Lord, we pray for nourishing rain for our crops throughout this country and sustaining water for our communities, trusting your provision (Psalm 65:9).

Safety and Well-Being

Haley’s prayers turn to protection and healing, concerns close to every Southern and Midwestern heart, as well as throughout this country.

• School children: “Pray for the safety of all the school children,” Haley urged. Lord, wrap our children in your protection, for they are precious to you (Psalm 127:3).
• Mental health and loneliness: “So many are struggling with mental illness, loneliness, and addiction,” she said. Heavenly Father, remove the stigma of mental illness. Provide help for those hurting and their families, filling empty places in their hearts with your love. May we remember your promise in Psalm 34:18: “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted.”
• Freedom from fear: Haley longs for a day when we don’t scan for exits at malls or concerts, fearing violence, or worry when an ambulance passes that it’s headed to our children’s schools. Lord, guard us from harm and grant us peace that surpasses all human understanding, your peace (Philippians 4:7).

Spiritual Revival

Haley’s deepest desire is for a revival of faith, a prayer that echoes in Mississippi’s churches, Iowa’s churches and throughout our beloved country.

• Revival and outreach: “Our souls cry out for revival,” Haley reflected, noting many don’t know God. Lord, let your Holy Spirit blow open the doors of our churches, welcoming seekers for a mighty harvest of souls. “Let us not grow weary in doing good” (Galatians 6:9).
• Wise leadership: “Help lawmakers be inclusive in their decisions,” she said. Guide our leaders, Lord, to promote unity and free speech, finding true freedom in you (John 8:36). Help us to walk across divisive lines and lead lives pleasing to you.

A Closing Prayer

Father God, we lift up Des Moines, DeSoto County, and every community throughout this country to you. Protect our children, heal the hurting, and guide our leaders. May your Holy Spirit spark revival, filling hearts with your love and transforming our world. We pray in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.

I invite you to join me in front-porch prayers for your community. What needs weigh on your heart? Lift them to the Lord, trusting He hears every cry.

Kathy Yoder is a devotional writer and Christian author. She may be reached at kathyyoder4@gmail.com and Kathyyoder.com.

[vitalitysouth-ads-ads]