When someone we know is dying, it’s natural to feel a range of emotions. Shock, sadness, confusion, and fear are all common when faced with the reality of someone’s mortality.
Even though we may be feeling a lot of different things, one thing that we can do is pray for them.
Prayer isn’t a magical cure-all, but it can be a source of comfort and support for both the person who is dying and their loved ones.
Here are some prayers you can say for someone who is dying.
6 Prayers for Someone Who Is Dying
1)
Dear God, I pray that you give (insert sick person’s name) comfort and peace as they transition to the next life. May their spirit be filled with happiness and love, always looking towards the day when you will welcome them home again.
You said, ‘Where I am, my servant will also be.’ I pray that you will be with (insert sick person’s name) in their final days, so they can find comfort in knowing that you are always with them.
I pray that you will give strength to (insert sick person’s name) family and friends. May they find a way to cope with their loss, but also be able to move on from this life while still holding the memory of (insert sick person’s name) close to their hearts. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.”
2)
Our dear Lord, thank you for the time we’ve spent with (insert sick person’s name). We know that our future is uncertain, but we’re grateful for the time we’ve had.
Today, as they prepare to say goodbye to this world and enter into a new one, please be with those who love them most. Give them comfort in knowing that you will always love and care for them, no matter what happens in this life.
Give us peace as we say goodbye to our friend/ relative/ loved one at their funeral, but also help us to stay connected even when they are gone from our lives. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.”
3)
Almighty God, creator of the universe and everything in it, I come to you today because my heart is burdened. For far too long I have watched (insert sick person’s name) suffer, knowing that there is nothing I can do to ease their pain.
Today, as they prepare to die, I pray that you will give them peace. Comfort them in knowing that there is still one more thing they must do before they can return home, and help me to be patient while (insert sick person’s name) completes this final task.
Help (insert sick person’s name)’s family and friends to remember the good times we shared with them, and to remember that death isn’t the end. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.”
4)
Dear Heavenly Father, as we approach this day of (insert sick person’s name)’s passing into your care, please be with those who will mourn their loss today. Give us the strength to face the arduous task of saying goodbye.
Please watch over (insert sick person’s name) in the days ahead and give him/her peace in knowing that you are preparing a place for them in heaven where they will be free of their illness. We ask all these things in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
5)
Dear Lord, though we may not understand why you call us to say goodbye to (insert sick person’s name), we trust that you have a plan. We know that no one can fully grasp your ways; however, we ask for peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Please give (insert sick person’s name) comfort during their illness, and give (insert sick person’s name)’s family courage during their time of grief. Thank you for your everlasting love; in Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.”
6)
God our Father, I come before you today to ask that you look with compassion upon (insert sick person’s name).
May our friend/loved one be filled with your Holy Spirit, that they may know the fullness of life and the joy which you have prepared for them in your kingdom.
May they rejoice knowing that one day soon they will see you face to face.
You said in Your Word, ‘As in Adam all die, so in Christ, all will be made alive.’
I pray that they will turn to You in repentance and faith, allowing Jesus to be their Lord. I pray for (insert sick person’s name) family who are also heartbroken over this loss. Comfort them with the promise of your never-ending love; in Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is there a scripture that you recommend to go with the prayers?
We believe all of the scriptures below can be incorporated into any of our prayers.
Psalm 34:18; Psalm 116:15; Psalm 103:1-5; Matthew 5:4; John 14:27-29; Romans 8:38-39; 2 Corinthians 5:8-9; 1 John 3:1; and John 11:25-26
How long should each prayer be?
Each of these sample prayers is meant to guide the officiant in the right direction. While there is no such thing as a perfect prayer, we hope these samples will give you an idea of how to provide comfort and peace while incorporating scripture. Keep in mind, funerals are an individualized time, so each prayer should be unique to that specific person.
How long should the scripture readings be?
The scripture readings need to be chosen according to the time provided by the officiant. Some funeral directors will allow for 10 minutes, while some may only provide 5 minutes. Whatever amount of time you are given, make sure to pick out scripture readings that are appropriate for the person being remembered.
Who should be invited to speak?
Only those who have something meaningful to say about the deceased person should be asked to stand and speak. This may include family members or close friends. Remember, just because someone volunteered, it doesn’t mean they should automatically be allowed to speak.
What about the eulogy?
A eulogy is often written by someone close to the person being remembered and can be read at his or her funeral. Sometimes, it may come as a surprise who wrote the eulogy. No matter who writes it, make sure it honors the deceased person in the best possible way.
What if none of these prayers seem like they will work for my situation?
The beauty of it is that you can prayerfully adapt any of them to fit your needs! Prayer is an extremely personal thing, so only make changes when necessary.
What if I don’t have the time to prepare my own prayer?
If you are in a situation where you do not have the time to prepare your own statement, please refer to one of our examples. It is important that whoever will be speaking at the funeral provides comfort and peace during this difficult time.
Conclusion:
I hope you enjoyed these prayers and they help to give some ideas on what to say during a funeral!
