12 Days Of Christmas – Advent Prayer List

I've always loved Christmas. There's a magical feel in the air—the music, Christmas decorations, Santa's workshop, and the elves hustling to finish toys at the last minute; it's enchanting.

This Christmas, I compiled a list of things I wanted to do during the holiday season—spending time with loved ones, strolling through decorated streets, and indulging in Christmas movies. And then I had an idea: why not create a Christmas prayer list, like an advent calendar? So here's my prayer list that I'd like to share, hoping it inspires you to pray or create your own. Cheers!

1. Forgive those who may have hurt or offended you.

No one is perfect. People may hurt and offend us, just as we do to others. This Christmas, let’s leave unforgiveness and bitterness out of your heart. Easier said than done; therefore, ask God for the grace and strength to forgive others. And ask God to forgive you for your own trespasses.

2. Remember that Jesus Christ is the reason for Christmas.

Isaiah 9:6 For to us, a child is born, to us, a son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. May we reflect on the true meaning of Christmas: the birth of Jesus Christ. Let’s acknowledge Jesus as the Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. Be grateful for the hope and peace Jesus brings.

3. Dedicate time to prayer and service for those in need.

While we are enjoying good times, let’s not forget those in need. Recognize that what seems normal for us can be a luxury for someone else. If we have the time and ability, why not pray for them, raise funds for them, donate, or be a volunteer, even if it’s just for a day? You can always make it fun by teaming up with friends to be volunteers.

4. Pray for the smooth operation of church activities.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and the church will be busier during the Christmas season. The team is busy with Christmas activities – worship sessions, evangelism events, Christmas luncheons, you name it. These events will be needing support whether you actually volunteer or even just pray for them. Ask God to send angels to protect the team from any potential attack and, of course, smooth operation of church activities.

5. Lift up your church pastors, staff, and leaders in prayer.

The Christmas season will be an unusually busy season for Church pastors, staff, volunteers, and leaders. Keep them in prayer during these busy moments. Offer help or buy them lunch or coffee just to show your appreciation.

6. Pray for peace and joy during your family gatherings this Christmas.

While gathering with family can be pretty exciting, for some people, things can be a little bit difficult during family gatherings. But fret not, you can always pray and ask for God’s joy and peace during these gatherings. May God grant you wisdom, and may you be the peacemaker during family gatherings this Christmas.

7. Pray for safety and protection while traveling during the holiday season.

For those of you who will travel back home during the holiday season, pray for safety and protection. Christmas holidays tickets might be expensive, perhaps ask God for favor to find a cheaper ticket and smart ways to skip the holiday traffic. (Don’t call me crazy!) Have fun and stay safe.

8. Pray for the salvation of your beloved family and friends.

Christmas is about the Birth of Jesus Christ. That being said, Jesus was born for each and every one of us so that those who accepted him can have an eternal life. Why not pray for your family and friends who haven’t known Christ yet, better yet, invite them over to your church Christmas gathering and activities.

9. Pray for good health and well-being.

Without health, there is nothing. Health is extremely important. Do pray for good health and well-being during daily lives and throughout the year.

10. Create a gratitude list, one entry for each month from January to December.

We have made it so far from Jan 2023 till Dec 2023. I do believe God has been partnering with us throughout the year, and there are a lot of things that we can be grateful for.

Why don’t we write a gratitude list, one entry for each month from January to December? Need to write more? That’s amazing. And give the Lord the credit that he has helped us throughout the year.

11. Seek wisdom and discernment in your financial planning for Christmas shopping.

One of the fun parts of Christmas is, you guessed it, Christmas shopping!! It's always fun to shop for Christmas, be it picking up a cool gift for your loved ones, Christmas decorations, or groceries shopping to feed all your guests throughout the holiday. At the same time, you might accidentally put things in the cart that you don’t actually need (or use). Do seek wisdom and discernment before you do your Christmas shopping, make a shopping list, and ask God to help you and join the shopping spree with you.

12. Last but not least, prayers for a brighter year in 2024. Woohoo!!

As we are all reaching the end of the year, do pray for a better, more meaningful 2024 ahead!