Prayer requests

Seems like every time we look at the phone, the tv, or the computer, headlines are shouting the latest crisis.  We are overwhelmed with the constant barrage of information and disinformation - the Twitter feeds, the Facebook posts, and all of the other things that keep trying to get our attention.
Globally, we are still fighting the pandemic, the invisible enemy called the coronavirus. In our own countries, in our home cities, and in our homes, we can feel the impacts of these crises . . . whether the pandemic, weather tragedies, civil unrest, etc.

It's very common to feel anxious in these times. To feel the uncertainty that is prevalent in the world today. But in these moments, it is important to remember that our God is a fortress of hope and protection. He invites us to take refuge in Him through prayer when we are frightened or alone.
Because of Jesus, we can come to God with our trials and tribulations and find both comfort and hope for the road ahead.

One of the best ways to find comfort and to pray to Him is to reflect on His Word. We can try reading these aloud as part of our prayer time:

God is our refuge and strength,A very present help in trouble. (Psalm 46:1)

For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline. (II Timothy 1:7)

Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. (Romans 15:13)

Speaking these promises and truths aloud and asking God to make them real in our lives will not only comfort us but will please Him.  He is happy when we ask Him for His joy and peace, and the Spirit will enable us to know the peace that "passes all understanding."

We can also do as we often have, on this study blog, and pray with others. Praying together in faith is a powerful force, as the scriptures tell us. Not only does it give each person a sense of belonging, but collectively it affords us comfort and the feeling that we are assisting each other across the miles. By praying with others, we care for the wellbeing of our sisters (and brothers) in Christ all around the globe.

It's also important to ask others for specific prayers. Sometimes asking for help can be hard to do. I know. I'm one of those. (Grin) We also live in a society that celebrates the individual and the achievement of doing things on your own. Internet memes abound with words like "persist" and "resilient" and "strong." It's helpful to remember that asking others for prayers is an opportunity to fully demonstrate our weakness -- and His strength -- and to celebrate that we are not alone. A family friend, a family member, or a member of our faith community can join us in prayer and we grow closer as a body of believers in Christ.  We can thank Him for blessing us with loved ones that we can lean on in times of adversity.

Let's have an intentional time with God today. Let's truly devote ourselves and focus on thanking Him and rejoicing over His blessings and answered prayers. Let's pray for each other and then ask Him to show us freshly today that He is with us.
He will do that.
It may be a small thing that happens and brightens our day. It may be something bigger. But it will happen, and our hearts will be lightened and comforted as we realize that He cares and shapes our circumstances and our lives for our good -- and for His glory!

Let us know if you would like for us to join in prayer with you -- leave a comment with your request or praise . . .