Why is prayer the first step in combatting human trafficking?
In the battle against human trafficking, it’s natural to want to jump straight into action. The issue is urgent, lives are at stake, and it can feel like we don’t have a second to waste. But what if the most powerful first step is not action but prayer?
For some, this might seem counterintuitive. After all, aren’t awareness campaigns, policy changes, and rescue missions more immediately impactful than quiet moments of prayer? While these are essential parts of the fight, prayer plays an equally vital, often underestimated, role.
At Elijah Rising, we believe that prayer is the most powerful starting point for real, lasting change, and the this story is a powerful example of this.
A Movement Fueled by Prayer
Leigh’s journey with Elijah Rising began with one of our Van Tours, an eye-opening experience that reveals the hidden realities of trafficking happening around Houston. Like many, Leigh left that tour shocked and heartbroken. She felt compelled to do something to help.
But instead of diving straight into action, Leigh took a different approach. She dedicated time to prayer, asking God for wisdom and clarity on how she could make a meaningful impact. That time wasn’t passive; it was active preparation. It was during those years of prayer that Leigh found the direction, community, and strength she needed, eventually leading her becoming an integral part of the Freedom Church Alliance. Today, her organization connects local churches with anti-trafficking initiatives, bringing together communities of faith to make a powerful impact.
Why Prayer First?
You might still be wondering: why should prayer be the first step in combating human trafficking?
- Prayer Changes Us
The act of praying doesn’t only bring us closer to God; it also refines us. In prayer, we gain compassion, humility, and a deeper understanding of God’s heart for justice. Leigh’s time in prayer transformed her from a concerned observer to a leader, focused on supporting a movement rather than taking isolated action. It equipped her with the patience, wisdom, and faith required to launch and sustain a nonprofit. - Prayer Opens Doors We Cannot
When we pray, we invite God into the fight, opening doors we couldn’t unlock on our own. Human trafficking is a complex problem that intersects with many other injustices. Prayer invites divine intervention into these spaces, softening hearts, bringing people across our path, and orchestrating opportunities for action and justice that human efforts alone might miss. - Prayer Produces Perseverance
Activism without a foundation of prayer can lead to frustration, exhaustion, and burnout. Human trafficking is a huge issue that can feel overwhelming. Leigh’s years in prayer weren’t a delay—they were a time of spiritual grounding. Because of that preparation, she was able to launch from a place of strength, faith, and vision rather than striving or fear. - Prayer Helps Us Discern Our Role
Finally, prayer clarifies our unique role. Not everyone is called to lead an organization like Leigh does, but everyone has a part to play. Prayer helps each of us discover where we fit in the larger mission, whether it’s through advocacy, awareness, financial support, or direct action. By seeking God’s guidance first, we can ensure we’re in alignment with His plan.
From Prayer to Action
Today, Freedom Church Alliance serves as a bridge, connecting churches to anti-trafficking organizations and offering congregations tangible ways to get involved in the movement to end trafficking. Leigh’s story challenges us to rethink our approach: what if we let prayer lead our actions instead of following them?
As you think about your own role in fighting trafficking, consider starting with prayer. Ask God to reveal where He’s calling you and trust that He will guide your steps. Prayer may not look like immediate action, but it builds the foundation for transformative change.
To hear more about Leigh’s story and the power of prayer in combating trafficking, watch her share her experience in this YouTube video.
Thank you for joining us in this fight. Together, through prayer and action, we can bring light to the darkest places.
