25 Prayers for Justice

Contributing Writer
25 Prayers for Justice

How is justice defined in the world today? News reports tell about crimes committed and how people are seeking justice. What about those times when the actions of another person hurt someone? Does justice only refer to criminal behavior? What does God say about justice?

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Justice in Biblical Times and Today

Lady Justice

Merriam-Webster defines justice as “the maintenance or administration of what is just, especially by the impartial adjustment of conflicting claims or the assignment of merited rewards or punishments.”

God has equipped certain people with the ability to lead in seeking justice. The judicial system is sometimes overloaded with trials and the need for correct decision-making.

In biblical times, some judges led the people in trials and disputes. Deborah was a prophetess who held court under a palm tree. Other judges, such as Samuel, traveled to different areas to give justice.

How is the justice system different today than in biblical times? Leaders were chosen in those times, and leaders are selected today. Does that mean those people in charge never make mistakes? No, as humans, there are times we err. However, we know that ultimate justice is not our decision. God will provide His justice at the time He chooses.

“Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.” (Romans 12:19 NIV)

There are good and bad consequences for actions. We aim to seek God, worship Him, and share His love with others. We are called to follow His commandments.

Christians know that our sins were placed on Him when Jesus was crucified on the cross. The justice of God was poured out on Jesus so that we may have eternal life. 

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16 NIV)

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Are There Prayers for Justice in the Bible?

open Bible on table

Yes, prayers for justice are found in the Bible. These prayers were guides in Biblical times and can be paths for seeking justice now.

King David prays for his son, Solomon, as he prepares to become king.

“Endow the king with your justice, O God, the royal son with your righteousness.” (Psalm 72:1 NIV)

In Psalm 82, Asaph writes about God presiding in the great assembly and rendering judgment among the “gods.” He asks God to rise and judge the earth.

“Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; love and faithfulness go before you.” (Psalms 89:14 NIV) 

The throne of God is established with justice and righteousness forever.

“But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream!” (Amos 5:24 NIV)

God wanted the people to live for Him and not live as hypocrites. Live for God every day, not just while in worship service.

Jesus often used parables in His messages. In Luke 18:1-8, Jesus reminded the people always to pray and never give up. He shared about a widow who kept coming to him and asking for justice against her adversary. Jesus shared that God will bring justice for his chosen ones.

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5 Prayers for Justice for Family Members

daily prayer, prayer for justice

Father, we come to You with heavy hearts. Our family member needs justice for a wrong committed against them. Although our first response may have been to seek revenge, we know Your judgment is the ultimate one. Please guide our words and actions to reflect Your love and mercy. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

Lord, I want to fix everything wrong with the judicial system. I want my family members to find justice. Their livelihood and relationships have been destroyed. Help me to have patience and understand that Your plan is at work. Amen.

Heavenly Father, one of our family members has been wrongly accused of breaking the law. There is proof of their innocence. Help the lawyers and judges to make the correct decision at trial. Give everyone the tools needed to resolve this situation. Thank You. Amen.

Abba Father, Your mercies are new each day. Help us to remember we are never alone. As we seek justice for family members, give us wisdom, discernment, and revelation in each moment. Amen.

Dear God, our hearts are weary. A family member needs justice that only You can provide. The situation is filled with heartache and worry. Please cover everyone with Your hedge of protection while we await the answer. In His Name, Amen.

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5 Prayers for Justice for Friends

Person praying, prayer for justice for friend

Lord God, You are the answer to every question and need. We come to You now, knowing You hear our prayers. A friend needs justice in a marriage conflict. You know the details. Words have become harsh between husband and wife. The children are aware of the turmoil and are being negatively affected. Please help the legal system to give justice where justice is due. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

Father, a friend is seeking justice after an argument with another friend. Each person feels they are correct in what happened. Help them to pause and seek Your guidance. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

God, several friends have accused another person of telling lies. This accusation has caused a divide in friendships. Gossip is prevalent and spreading. Please help each person to pause and seek You first. Amen.

Lord, You are the answer to our prayers. Your justice and mercy are given with love. We ask for justice for our friends who are in a difficult situation. The details haven’t been shared, yet we know they need Your guidance. We thank You. Amen.

Almighty God, maker of Heaven and earth, we ask for justice for friends. Be with them as they journey through the judicial system. May they be reminded of Your love and glory in each moment. Amen.

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5 Prayers for Justice When There Are Problems at Work

stressed at work man holding head in hands prayer for justice at work

Father, tensions at work have become more intense each day. Accusations of mishandling funds, cheating, lying, and more are causing people to react negatively. Words of admonishment, gossip, and lies are spreading throughout the workplace. I ask for justice for each person wrongly accused. I pray for Your peace to cover everyone. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

God, today I pray for justice at the workplace. May every employee and customer find calm and peace amidst any disturbances. May justice prevail if there is a conflict. Thank You. Amen.

Lord, the workplace is becoming more difficult. Problems are arising every hour. You know who is truthful and who is telling lies. Please help everyone work together to fix the problems and seek appropriate justice from authorities. Amen.

Abba Father, may we find comfort in knowing Your judgment and justice will prevail at the workplace. Thank You. Amen.

Heavenly Father, remind us to seek You first in every situation. Earthly leaders don’t always make the correct decisions. Please give leaders at work the wisdom to provide justice for each concern. Amen.

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5 Prayers for Justice in Court

The Supreme Court building, prayer for justice in court

Father, a friend needs justice for being given poor customer service, resulting in injury. Guide the lawyers and judges to find the best solution to this situation. Guide our friend to seek Your peace and comfort during this anxiety. In His Name, Amen.

God, we need You. Our friends need You. We don’t have the answers to this specific incident. Justice is being sought through legal action and compensation. Please help everyone to seek You first and not rely on selfish motives. Amen.

Dear Heavenly Father, as we watch trials broadcast on television, radio, and social media, help us to remember not to make quick judgments, especially when we don’t have the facts. Please remind us not to get caught up in the entertainment aspect of trials. In His Name, Amen.

Lord God, rumors are being spread about local court cases. Judgments are being made without the facts being shown. A particular case is a topic of conversation in this town. May we not be quick to judge when we don’t have the answers. Amen.

Father, we lift the judges, court clerks, legal aides, bailiffs, police, volunteers, and everyone who works with the court system, to You. Guide them to make the correct choices and decisions for each case. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

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5 Prayers for Justice in International Crises

hands raised over map to illustrate prayer for justice international crises

Lord God, as we hear or read news reports of international crises, help us to pray for justice in each situation. As we learn of travelers detained for unknown reasons, accusations of espionage, or other charges, we pray that their accusers treat each person held fairly and humanely. Guide each international judicial system to give fair and honest judgment. Amen.

Father, we need Your intervention. People are being held in foreign countries, and we can’t give specific aid from here. We do know that prayer is a powerful tool. In the name of Your Son Jesus, we ask for all wrongly accused to be freed and allowed to return home. Thank You. Amen.

Dear God, every day brings a new international crisis. Please bring justice quickly. We need You. Amen.

God, thank You for the love, mercy, and justice You give. As believers, we know Your timing is always best. We ask for Your help bringing honest and quick judgment to all international crises. In His name, Amen.

Lord, as we learn of more international problems and people waiting to be tried for crimes, we ask You to cover each person being held against their will with Your hedge of protection, love, and peace. Please bring justice quickly. We pray in the name of Your Son Jesus. Amen.

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What Can We Do While Waiting for Justice?

people praying, prayer for justice

As we wait for justice, we can pray individually and in groups. People don’t have to know prayers are being said or written for them. God knows, and that is what matters.

Justice on this earth may not always be given as we hoped. Mistakes have been made. We can find comfort in knowing that the judgment of God is the one we seek and God never makes mistakes.

In His Name,

Melissa Henderson

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Melissa HendersonAward-winning author Melissa Henderson writes inspirational messages sometimes laced with a bit of humor. With stories in books, magazines, devotionals, and more, Melissa hopes to encourage readers. 

Melissa is the author of Licky the Lizard and Grumpy the Gator. Her passions are helping in the community and church. Melissa is an Elder, Deacon, and Stephen Minister. 

Follow Melissa on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and at http://www.melissaghenderson.com