Seven things to pray for in 2026

A year is a long time in politics, and there will be many things we will need to pray for over the coming twelve months that we are not yet aware of. But here are some things that we do know are coming up in 2026, that need our prayers.

“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” (Micah 6:8)

Father God, as the government lays out its agenda in the King’s Speech in May, we pray that you would lead and guide them as they plan their priorities. Help them to decide on the right things to pursue that would protect the vulnerable, provide for the poor, give justice to the oppressed and honour you, our God. Give courage, we pray, to politicians to speak up for what is right and use their influence to shape policies and practice. Help those in government to implement the good they aim to do with truth and grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

“The LORD brings death and makes alive; he brings down to the grave and raises up.” (1 Samuel 2:6)

Heavenly Father, you are the Lord of life, and you are the only one who can give life and take it away. We pray for the Bills before Parliament in England and Wales, and in Scotland, which would allow for assisted suicide to become possible. We pray for our leaders and politicians, that they would see the dangers of these bills and stand up for the worth of every human life. We pray that these bills would be defeated and that provision for palliative care would be enhanced instead. We pray that you would enable each one of us to value and care for those nearing the end of their lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

“They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war anymore.” (Isaiah 2:4)

Lord of All, as the war in Ukraine reaches its fourth year in February, we pray for an end to that conflict. We pray that the ongoing negotiations with Ukraine and Russia would produce a just and lasting peace. We pray for the leaders of all nations, that they would work for peace instead of war. We pray for the many other countries in the midst of conflict. Bring an end to bloodshed and aid for all those affected by war, longing for that day when every war will cease when Jesus returns. In His name we pray, Amen.

“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” (Proverbs 31:8-9)

Lord God, we pray for all who are trapped in prostitution and sexual exploitation. Jesus came to set the captives free, so we pray for freedom for all who are forced to sell themselves in order to survive, and for an end to prostitution. We pray for the passage of Ash Regan’s bill in the Scottish Parliament, which aims to implement the Nordic Model, making it illegal to pay someone for sex. We pray that this Bill will move positively through the parliamentary process, and that similar laws can be enacted in other parts of the UK, enabling women to be set free from prostitution. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

“Bring to an end the violence of the wicked and make the righteous secure— you, the righteous God who probes minds and hearts.” (Psalm 7:9)

Gracious God and Father, we pray for the Crime and Policing Bill working its way through the House of Lords. We thank you for the provisions it makes to prevent child sexual abuse, and violence against women and girls. God, you have made each one of us in your image, and given us worth and dignity. Please may this law, and other laws in our country, uphold that dignity and protect those who are vulnerable, especially children. For Jesus’ sake, Amen.

“So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” (Genesis 1:27)

Creator God, we pray for the long-awaited gender guidance from the government. As they outline how to implement the Supreme Court’s decision about sex and gender, please make that guidance clear, helpful and wise. Please help those who are struggling with their gender not to feel attacked or unsafe, but bring them to recognise the goodness of your handiwork in them. May Christians continue to be able to speak the truth about sex and gender with graciousness and compassion. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” (1 Timothy 2:1-2)

Loving God, we pray for the upcoming elections in May. We pray for the parliamentary elections in Scotland and Wales, and for local elections in England. We pray for all those who are standing for election. Grant them graciousness in the way that they speak and campaign, and a desire to serve those in their communities. Give to all those who are elected perseverance, strength and wisdom, and may they govern in a way that pleases you. For Jesus’ sake, Amen.