I’m writing this article from an airport, waiting to board a flight. The security line moved faster than expected (thank you, Lord), but now I’m staring at the departure board, hoping for no delays, no mechanical issues, and a safe trip. Even though I’ve traveled many times before, I still feel that mix of excitement and unease.
Maybe you feel it, too. Whether it’s a road trip, a flight across the country, or your loved one’s drive home, travel can bring a unique kind of anxiety. Crowded roads, confusing airport terminals, and unexpected delays can cause chaos, despite careful planning.
But there’s something we can do when everything else feels out of our control: pray. Below, you’ll find five prayers for safe travel you can pray whenever you’re about to fly, drive, walk, or sail.
Jump to the prayers.
3 Bible Verses to Remember When You Feel Travel Anxiety
It’s hard not to feel uneasy after hearing about a tragic accident on the news. Even though we know, statistically, that travel is safer than ever, those stories stick with us when we travel.
So what do we do when we’re stuck in a traffic jam or we fly through extended turbulence? One option is to remember God’s presence through memorizing Scripture.
Did you know there are Bible verses for people going on a trip? In the Psalms, there’s a collection of songs for people traveling to Jerusalem. These are called the “Songs of Ascent.” Is it accurate to call these chapters a biblical road trip playlist? Maybe not, but it’s the next best thing.
These songs often speak about God’s protection and consistent presence. So while these ancient journeys weren’t vacations, we can find strength in their contents. Let’s look at a few of the verses in the Songs of Ascent:
- I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. Psalm 121:1-2 NIV
- … the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. Psalm 121:8 NIV
- As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the LORD surrounds his people both now and forevermore. Psalm 125:2 NIV
Before your next trip, consider memorizing one of these Bible verses. They can remind you of God’s presence and God’s protection, and populate your prayers.
