A coronavirus prayer guide for Texas Baptist churches

COVID-19, more commonly known as the novel coronavirus, is much in the news and much on our minds. The word corona means “crown.” Even as we acknowledge the severity of this crisis, we can affirm the sovereignty of our King.

In scripture, and in our hearts and minds, we “crown” the thing to which we ascribe authority or rule. The following is a prayer guide using the prompt “A  C.R.O.W.N.” with scriptures reminding us of the authority and love of the Father and the authority and love of His Church.

Proclaim these promises and commands out loud and meditate on their truth. Ask God how He would have you respond, listen to what He says to you, and step out in obedience. Then take a moment to listen to this song, “He Wears a Crown” by Bryan McCleery and worship our Lord. He is worthy. 

Authority – We start by giving Jesus the authority due to Him. Praise God for His authority, power and might! Pray for God to extend His mercy, compassion and grace in the face of this outbreak. (Psalm 103:1-4; Revelation 4:9-11)

China – Pray God would strengthen and heal our brothers and sisters in China and other countries where the Coronavirus is most severe, and in our own communities.  Pray for healing from the Great Physician.(Ephesians 3:14-16; Philippians 4:1,4-7,19)

Responders – Pray for courage and strength for those “running into the battle” to fight this disease. Pray for those medical personnel caring for the ill, for researchers working around the clock to discover a vaccine and pray for government leaders responsible to combat the outbreak on a global scale. (Isaiah 35:3-4,10; Isaiah 61:1-3; Romans 13:7; 1 Timothy 2:1-4)

Obedience – Pray that we, His Church, will walk in obedience, not fear, as we ask Him, “What do you want me to do?” And then LISTEN for His answer to pray, give, minister… (Matthew 28:18-20)

Wisdom and Witness – Pray for God’s wisdom as we face challenges and decisions brought on by the virus. How can we best prepare and respond in wisdom and love? And pray for readiness in this time of uncertainty and fear to share the Good news as God provides opportunities for us to tell others the reason for the hope we have in Him! (James 1:2-5,12; 1 Peter 5:1-4,6-11)

Nothing (nada) can separate us from His Great Love! Proclaim this truth! Close your eyes, breathe deeply and rest in those promises that speak to the love and power of God! (Romans 8:28,31-35,37-39)

This prayer guide was produced by Ben Hanna, director of the Texas Baptist Greater San Antonio Church Health Initiative. The Church Health Initiative provides one-on-one coaching relationships, financial assistance, retreats and groups to encourage, connect and support pastors to greater health in every aspect of their lives. Contact Ben at ben.hanna@txb.org.