This article is the last in a series of five which focuses on raising a prayer shield in different areas of life, including family, a school, a community, the Church and missionaries. In this article we focus on missionaries.
Raising a prayer shield is not a new idea or type of prayer. Practically, a prayer shield is simply a spiritual prayer covering of protection, intercession and blessing over individuals, families, etc. It involves consistently praying for divine protection, guidance and intervention against spiritual attacks, negative influences and challenges.
A hedge of protection
The first time I became aware of a ‘hedge of protection’ surrounding a prayerful person was when I read about it in the book of Job.
He was a prayerful person: Job 1:5 – So it was, when the days of feasting had run their course, that Job would send and sanctify them, and he would rise early in the morning and offer burnt offerings according to the number of them all. For Job said, “It may be that my sons have sinned and cursed God in their hearts.” Thus, Job did regularly.
He was surrounded by a hedge of protection: Job 1:9-10 – So Satan answered the LORD and said, “Does Job fear God for nothing? Have You not made a hedge around him, around his household, and around all that he has on every side? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his possessions have increased in the land.
Why is a prayer shield necessary?
The following benefits of a prayer shield are valid whether we pray for ourselves, a friend, our family, school or nation, etc.
- Spiritual protection – It shields from spiritual warfare, attacks and negative influences (Ephesians 6:12).
- Godly guidance – It invites God’s wisdom and direction into a life (Proverbs 3:5-6).
- Strength and unity – A prayer shield helps to stay strong in faith and maintain unity (Ecclesiastes 4:12).
- Healing and provision – It opens the door for God’s provision, health and peace (Philippians 4:6-7).
- Strengthening your faith – It strengthens spiritual growth and trust in God.
Prayer shield to cover missionaries
Missionaries make tremendous sacrifices, leaving behind family, familiarity and comfort to obey the call of God. They step into unfamiliar cultures, often face spiritual resistance and carry the burden of representing Christ in places where He is not yet known. Our role in sending them doesn’t end with finances, it continues with faithful prayer.
Following is a simple daily guide to help you pray for the missionaries you know and support. Remember, you can add more prayer focuses that will apply to the missionaries you know and even edit these ones as the Holy Spirit leads you.
7-DAY PRAYER SHIELD FOR MISSIONARIES
Monday: Spiritual protection and strength
Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. – Ephesians 6:10.
- Missionaries face spiritual warfare, sometimes more intensely than we can imagine.
- Pray that God will protect them from temptation, fear, confusion and demonic attack.
- Ask the Lord to strengthen their faith and keep them rooted in His Word and truth, especially when they feel alone or overwhelmed.
Tuesday: Boldness and wisdom in sharing the Gospel
“But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me…” – Acts 1:8.
- Many missionaries work in nations where evangelism is restricted or even illegal.
- Pray that God will give them the right words to say at the right time.
- Ask for divine wisdom to know when to speak, how to build trust and how to share the Gospel in ways that touch hearts and open doors.
Wednesday: Provision and physical health
And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. – Philippians 4:19.
- Missionaries often live with limited resources. Pray that God will meet all their needs of food, shelter, finances and transportation.
- Ask for health and healing in their bodies and protection from sickness or exhaustion.
- Pray that they won’t feel ashamed to ask for help when they need it.
Thursday: Family support and encouragement
Cast your burden on the Lord, and He shall sustain you. – Psalm 55:22.
- Being far from your home country is difficult, especially for missionary families. Spouses and children may feel isolated or struggle with language barriers. Pray for emotional strength, close friendships and joy in their new surroundings.
- Ask God to knit their families closer together and help them find a sense of ‘home’ wherever they are.
Friday: Protection from persecution
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” – Matthew 5:10.
- In many nations of the world being a Christian, especially a missionary, comes with danger. Pray for their safety from threats, violence, or government action.
- Ask the Lord to use every trial for His glory and to soften the hearts of those who oppose the Gospel.
- If a missionary has had to return home unexpectedly, pray for healing, direction and peace.
Saturday: Wisdom for daily decisions
If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach. – James 1:5.
- Missionaries often make major decisions without the support systems we take for granted.
- Pray that God will lead them daily, whether they’re choosing how to handle local customs, discipling new believers, or deciding where to focus their efforts.
- Ask for discernment to avoid traps, misunderstandings, or discouragement.
Sunday: Fruitfulness and lasting impact
I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase. – 1 Corinthians 3:6.
- The work of missions is not always fast or visible, but it is powerful. Pray that the seeds that missionaries have sown will grow into lasting fruit: salvations, transformed communities and new churches.
- Ask God to encourage their hearts by letting them see lives changed and to multiply their efforts far beyond what they could imagine.
The Church is God’s chosen vessel to bring light into a dark world, but it does not move forward without resistance. Through faithful, Spirit-led intercession, we build a protective covering around pastors, worship teams, families and every ministry. Our prayers matter and make a difference, not because of us, but because our Heavenly Father is faithful to pour out His love on them. As we raise this prayer shield together, we strengthen the Church to stand firm, reach farther and glorify God in every generation.
