During this season where the pandemic has mostly confined us to our homes and social bubbles, the temptation may exist to retreat so far inward that we fail to notice the needs that exist right next door. But no matter where we live—urban, suburban, or rural locations—we are called to recognize that God’s heart is oriented toward our neighbors with care and compassion, and our hearts can be too. 

This week, take time to pray for your neighbors and neighborhood.
 

 1. Pray that the Lord would deepen your love for your city and neighborhood and the people who share them with you. 

Galatians 5:14, NIV For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.

2. Pray for a heart that longs to be hospitable. Consider how you can extend a hand of welcome to new neighbors or to those who have lived near you for years.

Hebrews 13:2, NIV Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.

3. Brokenness and need are everywhere. Pray for eyes to see need wherever it exists and a will to meet those needs as you become aware. 

Galatians 6:2, NIV Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.

4. Today, give thanks for the blessing of living where you do. Thank God for the apartment building, condo, or house He’s placed you in, and for the neighbors He has placed in your path.  

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, NIV Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

5. Your neighborhood may have organizations, schools, or small businesses. Ask God to show you what is already happening in and through these groups, and consider how you may join in with their efforts to build the community up.

Romans 13:10, NIV Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.

6. If your neighborhood has a park, visit it and take a walk. While you do, pray for the children and teenagers you see there. Ask God to protect and guide them as they grow.  

Matthew 19:14, NIV Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”

7. Pray for God to place in your heart a desire to serve your neighbors with generosity and his love, and then look for opportunities to make a difference.

Philippians 2:3-4, NIV Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.