Prayer For Peace In A World In Turmoil

Daily Prayer for Peace — 05 March

In the name of Jesus Christ, welcome to this sacred space where we are called to, “above all else, strive to be faithful to Christ’s vision of the peaceable Kingdom of God on earth. Courageously challenge cultural, political, and religious trends that are contrary to the reconciling and restoring purposes of God. Pursue peace.”

—Doctrine and Covenants 163:3b

Today in our prayers we remember the people of Cambodia, a nation in the southern portion of the Indochina Peninsula in Southeast Asia. It is bordered by Thailand to the northwest, Laos to the northeast, Vietnam to the east, and the Gulf of Thailand to the southwest.

Scripture Reading—Luke 6:41-42 NRSV

Why do you see the speck in your neighbor’s eye, but do not notice the log in your own eye? Or how can you say to your neighbor, ‘Friend, let me take out the speck in your eye,’ when you yourself do not see the log in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck your neighbor’s eye.

Prayer for Peace

Steve Bolie

All Powerful God,

You created all that is by the power of your Word. And that same power continually blesses us with life and abundance.

Today we are mindful of the ways in which the power that originates in you but is used selfishly rather than for the good purposes of humanity. Two of these are especially worrying right now.

The quest for political and economic power is too often amassed and used in ways that do not advance justice and peace.

Help us be a people who value justice and peace above power. And when we have positions of responsibility and influence help us use it in ways that lift up the worth of persons and advance your mission in the world. Motivate us to express your desires and expectations to those in positions of influence in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Hymn

Today’s hymn is 298 in Community of Christ Sings, “I Am Standing Waiting.” Sing or silently reflect on the meaning of the text as it is sung. Hymn number 298.

Prayers of the People

As we enter a time of guided prayer, meditation, and musical reflection, you are invited to offer silent prayers or meditate during the moments of quiet. The context for our Prayers of the People begin with ourselves and move outward, in rippling waves to those we know and love, to strangers and enemies, to the entire world, to all of creation.

Will you join with me in this time of prayer and meditation acknowledging your soul’s yearning for God’s presence and peace? Silently join your heart with God’s.

Pause.

O God of love, grant us your peace. We struggle with insecurities and fears, weighed down with issues that affect our sense of worth and wholeness. Grant us peace that calms the inner turmoil of our souls and affirms that we are beloved.

Pause.

O God of life, grant us your peace. We strive for relationships that are fair, equitable and filled with compassion, yet we often find ourselves enslaved in conflicts with others, even those we love. Grant us the strength to listen with our hearts first that we may grow in deeper connection with those whom we call friends, coworkers, neighbors, and family.

Pause.

O God of hope, grant us your peace. We have grown weary of the sounds of war, violence, oppression and diminishment of men, women and children, yet we fail to heed your urgent invitation to act for justice. Grant us the courage to extend our hands in acts of mercy, service, and peacemaking. We remember all nations, including Cambodia, the country we pray for today.

Pause.

O God of all creation, grant us your peace. We understand that we are made of the same substance as all living things, yet fail to grasp your vision of the sacredness of creation. Make us more aware and weave us into oneness. Grant us a glimpse of your love for creation in all its forms and the compassion to act in ways that respect and honor the genius of your universe.

Pause.

O God of peace, we offer ourselves as vessels of your grace and peace, so that from where we stand, waves of your loving presence will emanate to bless your world. In and through Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.

Sending Forth

Live simply. Value others.

Honor the Earth. Walk in sacred footsteps.

Go in peace.

Источник: //www.cofchrist.org/daily-prayer-for-peace-05-march

Finding Peace in a World of Turmoil

Imagine a state of perfect peace. What do you picture? For me, I imagine retreating alone to the ocean, looking out into the vastness, beauty, and power of its waters.

The air is comfortable with a warm and gentle breeze with no distractions other than the chatter of seagulls and the rhythmic beat of the crashing waves.

I envision a quietness with unthreatened time: no to-do list, fear, worry, pressure, pain, or place to be.

But then, just as quickly as I drifted off to my peaceful getaway, I am quickly jolted back to the reality of rambunctious children, phone calls, and an anxiety-inducing “to-do” list, as my envisioned peace fades into the distance.

Peace. Is it truly attainable beyond a momentary escape from reality?

According to John 14:27, it is.

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.

I have been meditating on this a lot recently. Several months ago, I felt financially comfortable, lived in a beautiful home, was blessed to stay at home with my four children and yet, I still struggled to find peace.

I felt confused, even angry, at why God was allowing so much hardship and heartache all at the same time.

Now here I am, months later, in a very different place.

Previous financial comfort is gone, my beautiful home is no longer mine, my health is an unknown, my children have a very uncertain future; yet, I have unexpectedly gained something as I have learned to surrender these things to the Lord. Peace. Due to the unrest of my circumstances, I am assured that Christ alone is the giver of this peace.

How is this possible? How is it possible to find peace when we live in a world of unrest, uncertainty, and suffering?

Firstly, it’s important to recognize that this verse tells us where peace is not found. It is not found in the world, ourselves, circumstances, or comfort, all of which we tend to seek for peace. Christ has made it clear in his Word that the peace we seek is bought, assured, and sustained by Christ alone.

Jesus Christ, the Purchaser of Our Peace

Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his stripes we are healed (Isaiah 53:4-5).

Each one of us has been born into sin and rebellion against God. Therefore, while we are enemies of God, we cannot experience any peace apart from his common grace. But Jesus gave himself up in our place to take the wrath of God upon himself, in order that we might be reconciled to God through his blood as the propitiation for our sins.

Because of this, only a believer in Jesus Christ can be filled with a peace that surpasses all understanding, since peace is birthed from a fixed disposition of trust in Christ, something the world can never know apart from him. In fact, the effort to achieve “world peace” is a futile one. Though the wicked experience glimpses of peace by God’s common grace, they cannot experience it fully since they do not have peace with God himself:

Only those who have been forgiven and covered by the blood of Jesus are truly at peace with God the Father and, therefore, any attempt to bring peace to the world apart from the peace of Christ will always fall short.

Lastly, the Bible reminds us that this promise of the peace we receive in Christ does not mean we will have peace with the world around us. In fact, he clearly tells us in Matthew 10:34, “Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword.”

In John MacArthur’s words,

Though the ultimate end of the Gospel is peace with God, the immediate result of the Gospel is frequently conflict. Conversion to Christ can result in strained family relationships, persecution, and even martyrdom.

Following Christ presupposes a willingness to endure such hardships. Though he is called “Prince of Peace,” Christ will have no one deluded into thinking that he calls believers to a life devoid of all conflict.

How then do we experience this peace which Christ has bought for us?

Jesus Christ, the Assurance of Our Peace

And the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness, quietness and assurance forever. (Isaiah 32:17)

The sanctifying work of Christ produces in us the fruit of righteousness. This is not a righteousness of ourselves but the righteousness of Christ being made our own, which is proof of our salvation and the Holy Spirit’s work in our life. This fruit of righteousness brings peace:

Inward peace of soul now, and eternal peace hereafter; the righteousness of Christ applied removes the guilt of sin from the conscience, it being perfect justifies from all things, and yields a tranquillity and serenity of mind, which is had in a way of believing, in this righteousness now, and it will issue in everlasting peace and rest in the world to come; the end of the perfect and upright man, who is perfectly justified by Christ’s righteousness, is peace.

In other words, as the fruit of the righteousness of Christ bears witness in our life, it produces in us a confident assurance and “quietness of soul” under the mighty hand of God. The byproduct of this assurance is a steadfast and unwavering peace in Christ, which enables us to persevere through even the greatest trial.

Jesus Christ, the Sustainer of Our Peace

You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock. (Isaiah 26:3-4)

Trusting in Christ is what saves us, and keeping our mind stayed on him is what sustains us.

However, while we have the responsibility of actively keeping our minds fixed on his truth, Christ is ultimately the one who pursues us, opens our eyes, saves us, redeems us, and sustains us.

If our Savior has done all of this for us, what more shall we fear? What are you allowing to steal the peace which he has purchased for you?

One of the greatest culprits that robs us of peace is our own lack of knowing the truth and believing it. Jesus tells us clearly that he will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on him.

Why? Because when our minds are stayed on him, we come to know more of the incomparable holiness, power, love, sovereignty, and grace of the God we serve, which creates in us a greater humility, dependence, and trust in him alone.

When his Word permeates our hearts, it changes our thoughts, actions, and entire being. The things we once held so tightly to – our hopes and dreams, external comforts, health, and financial security, which often rob our peace for fear of losing them – begin to lose their power over us as we learn to trust more fully in the love and sovereignty of Christ.

We are also told that the the Lord is an everlasting rock, literally meaning “Rock of Ages.” He is immovable, eternal, steadfast, and secure. Though everything in our lives may be threatened, changed, or lost, Jesus Christ, our “Rock of Ages,” will keep and sustain us in his unwavering peace.

Real and Lasting Peace

Believer, you can have confidence that real and lasting peace is truly attainable.

We must be aware, however, that it will not be found in the fulfillment of our plans, the distraction of social media, the success of our children, achieving better health, financial security, or even a temporary escape to our envisioned place of peace.

We may find a semblance of peace for a moment, or even a season, but it will not last, and it will leave us vulnerable to the inevitable disappointments that come as a result of the always changing circumstances of life.

The peace that you and I seek can only be found in Christ, assured by Christ, and sustained by Christ.

If you find yourself in a place of relative ease, are you seeking peace and contentment in Christ or in your comfort? If you are in a place of distress and feel as if peace is nowhere to be found, please do not lose heart. For it’s in those very moments that Christ draws nearest to us, gently teaching us to let go of our false securities and freeing us to experience the peace that comes with complete surrender and trust in him.

When we lean into his sovereign grace in the midst of turmoil and receive his divine peace, the world takes notice, and our lives become a platform to proclaim his glory.

For the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

Источник: //unlockingthebible.org/2015/07/finding-peace-in-a-world-of-turmoil/

Prayer for Nations In Turmoil – Bible Verses On Hope

With everything that is happening in the world such as the recent attack at Orlando nightclub, Britain’s seismic decision through referendum that resulted in divorce of Britain from the European Union, stock plummeting to record lows in response to Brexit, multiple stabbings in California and terror in Istanbul today June 28th, 2016 leaving many dead and scores wounded, now more than ever we need not just a day of prayer but days and days of non-stop prayers.

While it can be said that these things are a manifestation of the end times and bible prophecy being fulfilled, I believe that we are closer than ever to the 2nd coming and appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ.

It is not business as usual and the question is no longer when but where and who will be the next casualties of Islamic terror attacks on innocent lives around the globe.

In times these it is hard to know where to begin with our prayers or even how to pray. Many hearts are sore and aching while others helpless still continue ti cry out to God for mercy and for an intervention where people can once more live in peace and our lands healed.

Despite the way that we may feel God is forever faithful. He changes not. He is the same God today as He was yesterday and forever more shall be.

The same power that parted the Red Sea for the children of Israel to cross over from their enemy Pharoah and his army; that broke prison chains and opened prison doors; and raised Lazarus from the dead is the same God today who is more than willing to exercise that same power on all our behalf.

We cannot allow the enemy to instill fear in us or that we get to the point of being consumed by it. Our goal should be to stand together in unity and to pray on behalf of our nation, to ask God to heal our land, strengthen His people and give those in authority wisdom, guidance and divine strategies with this war on terror.

God still answers prayers and we can find comfort in His promise that “Violence shall no more be heard in thy land, wasting nor destruction within thy borders; but thou shalt call thy walls Salvation, and thy gates Praise.” ~ Isaiah 60:18 

Read also: 20 Encouraging Bible Verses For These End Time Days

Prayer for Nations In Turmoil

Father God we thank you for your grace, mercy and your great power to deliver and heal your people. We bless you Lord for the truth and promises that are found in your word. Heal our land Lord. Bring peace where there is turmoil and unrest.

According to Psalm 3: 7, Arise Lord, save your people. Smite our enemies upon their cheek bone and break the teeth of the ungodly and wicked men in the earth. We are also reminded of your word in Psalm 5:4 that you are not a God that hath pleasure in wickedness and neither shall evil dwell with you.

You are angry with the wicked every day but we thank you God for your word that you will be with your people to shew them your salvation, to extend grace, favor and your mercy, to provide your protection and to empower us with your strength.

May your light penetrate through dark place and hard hearts be made into a heart of flesh. Remind us to be watchful and to pray always lest we faint, to study your word diligently, to abide in you as you abide in us and be willing to stand for righteousness as we make a difference in our land.

Lord we ask for your healing grace. Heal the brokenhearted. Bind up the wounds of those who are hurting, are discouraged and feeling there is no escape for them. Show yourself strong and mighty Lord. We need you now more than ever. Thank you that you are forgiving and merciful. Be glorified in the earth Lord and bring honor to your name, amen.

7 Bible Verses On Hope

1. “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord; and the people whom he hath chosen for an inheritance.” ~ Psalm 33:12
2. “And wisdom and knowledge shall be the stability of thy times, and strength of salvation: the fear of the Lord is his treasure.

   ” ~ Isaiah 33:6

3. “The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.

   ” ~ Psalm 145:18

4.  “I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.

   ” ~ 1 Timothy 2:1-2

5. “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” ~ Mark 11:24
6. Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven.

   ” ~ Matthew 18:19

7. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your request be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your mind in Christ Jesus.” ~ Philippians 4:6-7

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• Faith
• Hope
• nations
• Prayer
• turmoil

Источник: //empowermentmomentsblog.com/2016/06/28/prayer-for-nations-in-turmoil-bible-verses-on-hope/

Finding Peace in a World of Struggle: Prayer for the Troubled Heart

• Debbie McDanielCrosswalk.com Contributing Writer
• 2016Jul 15

Often, living a peace-filled life comes down to a choice. Choosing to come to Him, choosing to set our minds on His Word, choosing to trust Him no matter what, choosing to pray in all that we face, choosing not to be anxious, choosing to believe that He's always with us and in control, choosing to set our thoughts on those things that are true and right.

God reminds us in His word that peace will not naturally just come our way, He tells to “seek peace and pursue it,” Ps. 34:14.

 Some may offer their own advice, “Get away for a few days, relax, be happy, take a vacation, tune out, just don't think about stressful stuff.” But it's only temporary relief in a crazy, struggling world.

Vain attempts to cover desperate places of our souls with superficial, external fixes.

But the peace God offers is vastly different. It's lasting. Confident. Real. Breathing deep reassurance in the midst of all that we face – past, present, or future. Rising up against the fear that would seek to choke our lives. Bringing comfort and freedom. 

God's words give strength, purpose, grace. They alone are what can bring inner calm to a whirlwind of crazy.

A Prayer for Peace for a Troubled Heart

Dear God,

Our world is hurting and broken. We pray for those who have lost loved ones this week, please comfort them in their grief and loss, cover them with your peace and presence, as only your Spirit can do.  

We know that in whatever we face, you are our Peace and Refuge, a very present help in times of trouble. Thank you that you remind us throughout your Word, we do not face the storms alone, but you are always with us.  Whispering calm. Speaking peace. Bringing rest to our souls.

We confess our need for you. We ask you to forgive us for trying to figure everything out on our own, for not trusting that you are more than able and powerful to work on our behalf.

 Give us the ability to trust you more, give us a heart that finds rest in your presence, give us the wisdom to seek peace and pursue it, remembering it’s only to be found in you alone.

Thank you that your yoke is easy and your burden is light. Thank you that you care for us. Thank you that the peace of your loving and strong presence guards and protects our hearts and minds in you. Thank you that we do not have to walk in fear or live in overwhelmed cycles of worry and stress.

Thank you for your voice that breaks through the greatest wind and storm swirling around us, and whispers “Peace, be still.”

Thank you that you sent your One and Only Son to set us free.

In the Mighty Name of Jesus,

Amen.

13 Verses of Peace to Guard Your Hearts and Minds in Him:

“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27

“You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you.” Isaiah 26:3

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7

“The Lord gives strength to his people, the Lord blesses his people with peace.” Psalm 29:11

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

“Cast all your anxiety on Him because he cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7

“For God is not a God of disorder but of peace.” 1 Corinthians 14:33

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

“Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.” 2 Thessalonians 3:16

“…the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace.” Romans 8:6

“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things…and the God of peace will be with you.” Philippians 4:8-9

“For He Himself is our peace…”  Ephesians 2:14

“The Lord bless you and keep you, the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you, the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26

No matter what we go through in this life, or what we're up against today, we don't have to be shaken.

We're safe with Him.

At rest.

At peace.

He sent His only Son, pure essence of Peace Himself, to give us lasting freedom and peace that only He can give.

Debbie McDaniel is a writer, pastor's wife, mom to three amazing kids (and a lot of pets). Join her each morning on Fresh Day Ahead's page, //www..com/DebbieWebbMcDaniel, for daily encouragement in living strong, free, hope-filled lives. Find her also at //.com/debbmcdaniel and //www.debbiemcdaniel.com.

This article is part of our larger Prayers resource meant to inspire and encourage your prayer life when you face uncertain times. Visit our most popular prayers if you are wondering how to pray or what to pray. Remember, the Holy Spirit intercedes for us and God knows your heart even if you can't find the words to pray. 

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