I sit here this morning in prayer for all those in the wake of Hurricane Helene.
Those who have missing loved ones; those who have loved ones who have died and those who have experienced the loss of their earthly possessions.
Praying also for those who are coming to help. First responders, good Samaritans bringing medical aid, food and water, clothing and temporary shelter. Those bringing hope!
I saw a post by Franklin Graham that over 800 volunteers have arrived to help the people in North Carolina. Medical teams, field hospitals, water, clean-up crews working and praying in those communities. May I encourage you to give a donation to Samaritan’s Purse to help fund these efforts.
Many of you are like me. So far away and unable to physically help but we can pray!
Prayer is never a secondary response. Prayer is powerful.
This morning my heart was drawn to two different Psalms.
“I will always praise the Lord.
2 With all my heart,
I will praise the Lord.
Let all who are helpless,
listen and be glad.
3 Honor the Lord with me!
Celebrate his great name.
4 I asked the Lord for help,
and he saved me
from all my fears.
5 Keep your eyes on the Lord!
You will shine like the sun
and never blush with shame.
6 I was a nobody, but I prayed,
and the Lord saved me
from all my troubles.
7 If you honor the Lord,
his angel will protect you.
8 Discover for yourself
that the Lord is kind.
Come to him for protection,
and you will be glad.” Psalm 34:1-8 CEV
“I look to the hills!
Where will I find help?
2 It will come from the Lord,
who created heaven and earth.
3 The Lord is your protector,
and he won’t go to sleep
or let you stumble.
4 The protector of Israel
doesn’t doze
or ever get drowsy.
5 The Lord is your protector,
there at your right side
to shade you from the sun.
6 You won’t be harmed
by the sun during the day
or by the moon at night.
7 The Lord will protect you
and keep you safe
from all dangers.
8 The Lord will protect you
now and always
wherever you go.” Psalm 121 CEV
“Father, we pray for all who are recovering from this devastation. Comfort them, protect them, give them courage and hope. Let them experience Your love in a powerful way. Provide for them as only you can. Let them know that You are there! A very present help in time of trouble. In Jesus Name, Amen.”
Amen.