Those of us living in the U.S. are beyond fortunate. Up to now, we've not had to experience what it means to live in a war zone. That's a blessing.
But you don't have to live through this type of destruction and dysfunction to empathize with the thousands of people living in it everyday.
I don't watch the news often, but felt compelled to pay attention in this season.
As a woman called to love, lead and leave a legacy, we (as in you and me) are called to pray and intercede on others' behalf. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-17 Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.)
Now, I know what you may be thinking, "Desiree, life is...lifeing. And war thousands of miles away is hardly in my orb of concern."
Or, "I prefer to think on positive things instead of negativity in the world. There's always some type of evil playing out."
I hear you, but please consider,
THIS SITUATION AND THIS TIMING IN HISTORY IS UNLIKE ANY BEFORE NOW.
I'm not attempting to insert fear or worry or concern. We have NOT been given the spirit of fear but of love, power and a sound mind based on 2 Timothy 1:7.
However, praying for the people of Israel, Palestine, Lebanon, Egypt, Turkey, Ukraine, Russia, the U.S., etc. - on all sides of the politics - is crucial for them AND us.
Take a few moments during your quiet time today. See a sample prayer to assist below.
Lord God, we pray now for our President, Joe Biden. The hope of so many people across the globe lies in how our country believes. Speak to his heart with your wishes and surround him with sound, wise counsel.
We pray for our government. We know you are not a God of confusion, so we take authority over the confusion and ask that each member of Congress, our local, state and city governments be reminded what their role is and why they exist. We ask for wisdom, discernment and a voice in the wilderness to rise up among them.
We pray for the people of other countries, including the U.S., that are stuck in the feuding countries. Please give them a roadmap, path and resources to get out and return home safely.
We pray for all of those injured that they will get adequate help for their injuries. We pray for the families that have lost loved ones. Give them beauty in exchange for their ashes and strength for fear and joy for their mourning. Let them grieve completely and restore peace in due time.
We pray for the hostages that have been taken from their families and the families that hope for their return. Give them strength and resolve to endure. Please cover them, spare their lives and rescue and save them swiftly. Heal the hearts of their families. Allow them to hold fast to hope and cling to You in the waiting. Give them strength in the waiting.
We pray for every hospital, medical worker, volunteer and others committed to support people caught in the fighting. Give them energy, resolve and peace to emit peace to the helpless and hopeless.
We pray for every civilian searching for a safe place to go. Give them food, shelter, direction, favor and peace at every stop. Calm their nervous systems in the chaos and teach them how to rely on YOU and to cast their burden on You.
We pray for every member of every military, organized or not. Save their souls, give them a spirit of flesh and restore humanity to them again. We take authority over and cast out the spirit of murder and replace it with a spirit of life and peace so that resolution may be found.
Show us how to support people we don't know both near and far. Thank you for the power we have in prayer. Thank You for hearing us. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
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