A Call to Prayer
for Missing, Exploited, and Trafficked Children
Day 2
Thank you for joining Day 2 of the 10-day prayer initiative for missing, exploited, and trafficked children. The focus of this day centers on engaging the Father as intercessors for those in need; we are to come before the Lord on behalf of vulnerable, exploited, missing, and trafficked children.
Each day in this initiative includes Scriptures upon which to read and reflect, a basic discussion regarding the intention of the prayer topic, and a prayer that is to simply serve as a guide or starting point; what matters most is that we are directed by Biblical truth, lean into further intimacy with the heart of God, and be lead by the Spirit.
Throughout this call to prayer, share your prayers in the comments that we may join you through this journey.
Praying for Missing and Exploited Kids
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41.10
“I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, “Fear not, I am the one who helps you.” Isaiah 41.13
Nationwide, there are over 30,000 unresolved missing persons cases yearly; and, Arizona is currently ranked as 5th worst in this matter (2nd worst per capita). According to recent reports from the Arizona Department of Public Safety, there are currently over 500 active cases in Arizona specifically for missing children. According to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), in 2024 alone there were 26,823 reports of child trafficking which represented a 55% increase from 2023; however, 2025 reports from NCMEC showed additional increases: a 158% increase in reports of online enticement of children and a 323% increase in reports of child sex trafficking. Furthermore, 75% of all federal sex trafficking cases nationwide involve victims who were minors, and in more than 50% of reported sex trafficking cases, the victims were minors who were designated as runaways. 2021, however, showed yet another statistical change: 100% of all federal sex trafficking prosecutions against buyers involved child victims. And, we also know that 1 in 6 kids who have been reported missing were/are likely victims of child trafficking and exploitation. Such reporting must break our hearts, and it must call us into prayer as intercessors pleading for the movement, protection, and justice of God.
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through the fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the Lord your God.” Isaiah 43:2-3a
“The Lord is a stronghold for the oppressed, a haven in times of trouble. Those who know Your name trust You, for You do not abandon those who turn to You, O Lord.” Psalm 9:9-10
Prayer
Jesus, we come before you brokenhearted, with desperate prayers begging for Your justice and righteousness. We cry out to You, Lord—You who said “let the little children come to me”—for the sake of vulnerable children in need. You, God, are the Lord of Hosts, the Commander of the Armies of Heaven; reach out Your hand and draw Your children close.
Lord, we pray for the safety of children across our country, in our state, in our cities, and in our neighborhoods. Lord, we know that those in need are not far away; and, we pray, O God, that You will protect them, that You will arise and fight for them, that You will hear their prayers, and bring them peace. We bring their case before You and pray that every missing child is found. And, Lord, we pray that Your justice prevails!
Heavenly Father, we pray that You will stretch out Your hand and unleash all Your wonders that the vulnerable, exploited, and trafficked will be rescued from the wicked and healed from their distress. Move, Lord, and change our communities for Your glory and for the sake of the children You so deeply love. Rise, O Lord! Hear our cries. Amen.
“Hear, O Lord, what is just; heed my cry, give ear to my prayer, uttered without guile. My vindication will come from You; Your eyes will behold what is right…I call on You; You will answer me, God; turn Your ear to me, hear what I say. Display your faithfulness in wondrous deeds, You who deliver with Your right hand those who seek refuge from assailants. Guard me like the apple of Your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings from the wicked who despoil me.” Psalm 17:1-2, 6-9a
Share your prayers in the comments.