A 3-Part Guide for Praying Through Chronic Illness

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In 2025, I was diagnosed with an incurable autoimmune disease. While I had been experiencing symptoms for almost half a year prior, I did not receive a diagnosis quickly. I had to undergo extensive, invasive tests to get the diagnosis I have today. I would be lying if I said it hasn’t been a hard journey; however, it has ultimately strengthened my faith.

While I struggled with my faith before my diagnosis, receiving a clear answer helped alleviate some of my anxiety. I was no longer up against something I couldn’t name. Now I could identify it, and I knew that God could help me as I face the challenges this illness brings every day. Although I am doing better than when my symptoms first began, I still have very difficult days where I am extremely tired, in pain, and discouraged because of all I am unable to do. On those days, I find myself going to the Lord more often in prayer because I need His comfort, love, and support.

If you are also struggling with an incurable, chronic illness, you can find comfort in prayer as well. Prayers are powerful, and they have the ability to completely change our perspective. I cannot count how many times I have felt overwhelmed by a medical test, yet after praying and crying out to the Lord, I felt relief. Therefore, I encourage you to follow Peter’s words and cast your anxieties on the Lord, for He truly cares for you (1 Peter 5:7). He will give you relief and help you continue facing each day with strength.

Praying for Healing

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10). 

Whenever I am having a particularly challenging day, I reflect on Isaiah 41:10. God provides us with healing through doctors, medicine, and therapy. We should not overlook the blessings and resources the Lord has placed in the world.

The medical field is a tremendous gift. Without it, I would not have received my diagnosis or the treatment I need. Without medication, my condition could quickly worsen and lead to serious complications—one of which could be sepsis, resulting in a life-threatening emergency. I strongly believe we should utilize the resources God has provided through medicine, as it continues to grow and help countless people.

I am aware that some people avoid doctors due to past negative experiences. I have seen this in my own family. My mom had heart disease, yet many of her doctors treated her harshly. If she had encountered kind and compassionate doctors, she may have continued the treatment she needed to save her life. Unfortunately, my mom’s story is not unique. Many people avoid medical care for similar reasons. If this is true for you, I encourage you to pray and ask the Lord to help you find a new doctor. You are not required to stay with a physician who mistreats you. Research doctors in your area or ask friends and family for recommendations. Seek the Lord in prayer, and trust that He will guide you to the right person.

Dear Jesus, I ask that You heal me of my chronic illness. I ask that You use the resources You have given me to provide healing, such as doctors, medicine, and therapists. I trust that You will help me to find the right doctors that I need. In Your Name I pray, Amen.

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Praying for Strength 

“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever” (Psalm 73:26). 

Without a doubt, living with a chronic illness is overwhelming and exhausting. There are days when I don’t want to do anything. I feel like giving up. These moments are not a sign of failure—they are part of being human.

There have been many days when I have not wanted to go to the doctor or face ongoing symptoms. Yet this is part of my life now, and if you are also living with chronic illness, you understand. Others may not fully grasp it, but those who walk a similar path do. Remembering this helps me face each day with renewed strength. I am not alone, and neither are you.

Most importantly, we are not alone because we have Jesus. He gives us strength for every hardship and surrounds us with His grace. Even on days when we feel frustrated or angry with God, we must remember that He is not our enemy. He is our greatest source of comfort and strength. He loves us deeply and will sustain us (Romans 5:8; Psalm 18:2).

When we feel weak, we must turn to the Lord in prayer rather than relying on our own strength. Pride may tell us we can handle everything alone, but we cannot. We need God’s strength to persevere, especially in the midst of chronic illness. Instead of carrying everything ourselves, we are called to surrender to Him (Matthew 11:28-30).

Dear Jesus, I need strength to face each day. Every day is a struggle and there are days that I just don't want to deal with it anymore. Please give strength to me physically, emotionally, and mentally. I'm giving all of my worries over to You and I'm relying on Your strength. Bring my heart back to You rather than pride. Pride has no place in my life anymore. Thank You, Lord. Amen.

Praying for Faith 

“Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, ‘I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!’” (Mark 9:24). 

Many of us can relate to the father in this passage. We want to trust God, yet we struggle with doubt. Chronic illness can intensify these feelings, especially when healing does not come. We may begin to feel resentful or question God’s goodness.

If you have felt this way, you are not alone. God is not causing our illness, nor is He punishing us. Illness entered the world as a result of sin (Genesis 3). Even in our suffering, God’s love for us remains constant.

In these moments, we must rely on truth rather than feelings. Our emotions can shift, but God’s character does not. When our faith feels weak, we must continue turning to Him, even when it is difficult. Over time, as we hold onto truth, our faith begins to rebuild.

There may be seasons when you feel distant from God, but you can always return to Him. In fact, these seasons can become powerful moments of spiritual growth. If you are at the beginning of your journey with chronic illness, take heart; there will be better days ahead. Hold onto God and do not give up.

Dear Jesus, my faith has often struggled because of my chronic illness. I feel like You are punishing me or causing this illness to happen in my life. Please help me to change the narrative and to know You are good. You are my wonderful Savior and Redeemer. Restore my faith and help me to overcome my unbelief. I don’t want to doubt You any longer. I’ll praise You forever. Amen.

Photo Credit: Getty/kieferpix

Vivian Bricker obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Ministry, followed by a Master of Arts with an emphasis in theology. She loves all things theology, mission work, and helping others learn about Jesus. Find more of her content at Cultivate.