Greenland is increasingly at the centre of global climate vulnerability and geopolitical competition as the Arctic warms far faster than the rest of the planet. The island’s vast ice sheet, the second-largest in the world, continues to shrink rapidly due to global heating, contributing to rising sea levels and exposing landscapes previously hidden beneath permanent ice. Scientists warn that warming is accelerating permafrost thaw, destabilising slopes and creating hazards such as landslides and tsunamis that endanger coastal communities and infrastructure. Documented mega-landslides have generated massive waves and seismic signals felt worldwide, illustrating the dramatic Earth-system effects of Arctic change. (Wikipedia)

At the same time, retreating ice is revealing deposits of critical minerals and rare earth elements used in clean energy technologies, drawing growing interest from nations and corporations. Greenland holds some of the largest supplies of these minerals outside China, attracting strategic discussion about resource access and global supply chain diversification. (Wikipedia)

However, mining and infrastructure development face formidable challenges due to limited roads, fragile permafrost, and environmental risks. Thawing landscapes and unstable ground make construction and transport difficult, and poorly regulated extraction could further degrade fragile ecosystems. (Wikipedia)

Political discussions over Greenland’s future, including proposals for foreign acquisition and strategic partnerships, add to tensions that intersect climate vulnerability with resource ambition. Its Indigenous communities, environmental safeguards, and long-term sustainability are key considerations as the world weighs economic interests against stewardship of creation. (Georgetown Law)

Prayer Pointers

1. Pray for Wisdom in Resource Decisions

Pray that governments, corporations, and global actors engaging would pursue foresight and integrity when engaging with Greenland’s treasures. Ask God to place environmental responsibility, the rights of Indigenous peoples, and the welfare of future generations above short-term gain. Pray that every decision would reflect stewardship, justice, and care, protecting both communities and creation from exploitation or harm.

“The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.”  Psalm 24:1

2. Pray for Protection of People and Ecosystems

Pray for Greenland’s communities facing the intensifying impacts of climate change from landslides and floods to melting permafrost and fragile infrastructure. Ask God to be their refuge, shielding lives, homes, and livelihoods from danger. Pray that practical measures of care and foresight would preserve ecosystems and sustain the delicate balance of this unique land.

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”  Psalm 46:1

3. Pray for Global Foresight and Humility

Pray for global leaders to act with humility, patience and unity, recognising that decisions made in the Arctic affect the whole Earth. Ask God to soften pride, deepen cooperation, and guide policies that honour creation toward long-term responsibility rather than short-sighted ambition or rivalry.

 “Plans succeed with counsel, but with haste they fail.”  Proverbs 20:18

Summary Prayer

Creator God, grant discernment and restraint to those shaping Greenland’s future. Protect its people and fragile ecosystems, and teach all nations to steward Your earth with humility, justice, and care for generations yet to come. Amen.

More Information:

• World Economic Forum — Greenland’s climate, resources and global role
  https://www.weforum.org/stories/2026/01/greenland-4-things-to-know/ (World Economic Forum)
• Wikipedia — Greenland mineral and strategic discussions
  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Proposed_United_States_acquisition_of_Greenland (Wikipedia)
• Wikipedia — 2023 Greenland landslide and tsunami event
  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2023_Greenland_landslide (Wikipedia)