“Pray for each other.” James 5:16

This morning I watched a short video of brave Ukrainians kneeling in prayer. My heart breaks for those experiencing the pain of war. It hurts to consider how selfish I’ve become in taking time to PRAY for the needs of others who are vulnerable and suffering.   

Most of us will never know the pain which led them to gather in this way but we BELIEVE in the power of prayer when two or more are gathered in His name. 

The Bible says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Proverbs 3:5 NLT I will never fully understand the violence of war, but God hears our prayers. So, I pray and rejoice to remember God knows the heart that trusts. 

He helps those who need to be rescued and led to a place of relief. We have beautiful opportunities to PRAY for those who are weary, weak and afraid of what happens next. We need to PRAY for mercy and grace and BELIEVE it will be provided. 

As violence escalates, PRAY for God to guide those who are struggling in ways we can’t imagine. PRAY for those who are cold and lost in the darkness of doubt. PRAY for comfort from Jesus and PEACE in the mention of His name. PRAY for the many who long to experience how it feels to be held by His holiness and cradled in care. 

PRAY for the military and families who need to know they have our support. And never doubt what prayer WILL do to draw us closer to God AND one another. PRAY for each and EVERY one feeling the burdens of war. 

God will hear our prayers as we faithfully PRAY. He will know how to reach those who long to be recused and bring STRENGTH to remember we NEED Him EVERY day of our lives. HE is GOD! HE is HERE and He loves us. He will arm us with everything we need to help those who are fighting this battle and set the stage for what’s to come. It's time to love one another, choose to be faithful and PRAY.  

Dear God, thank you for opening our eyes to recognize the needs of others. We’re saddened by violence and pain. Fill us with desire to share the light of Jesus in the darkness of war. We welcome Your presence and remember who has the power to save. Help us turn from our selfish ways and PRAY!  Thank you, Lord. As violence escalates, help us remember YOU are the One who gives strength to endure as we TRUST in YOU. Thank you, Lord. Amen