Praying During Times of Need

Dear First Baptist Church of Upper Marlboro (FBCUM),

Amidst the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, it is greatly comforting to know that our God is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. He continues to be our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble (Ps. 46:1)—whether spiritual, financial, emotional, relational, or physical.

As Christians, we are called to love God with all of our heart, soul, and mind. In the same passage of Matthew 22, we are told to love our neighbor the same way that we love ourselves (Matthew 22:37-39). Our decision to cancel services is not one made out of a fear of getting sick or of death – for the Christian to die is gain (Phil. 1:21)! Rather, we make this choice out of love for neighbors – to protect those most vulnerable or high risk, and to help quell the virus as the CDC and local healthcare officials are directing. 

Ways we can be praying:

1. Lord, grant us wisdom to know how best to glorify You and to love our neighbor well.
2. Lord, guard our church from fear, anxiety, and disunity. Help us to trust that You are good and You are in control.
3. Lord, provide relief for those suffering from the effects of the virus throughout the world. Be glorified in drawing people to You and Your Word during these days of sickness and fear.
4. Lord, grant leaders in the areas of government, public health, medicine, and education, wisdom for the common good.
5. Lord, humble us with the reality of our weakness and frailty. Help us to number our days in order to gain hearts of wisdom.
6. Lord, stir our hearts to hope in the return of Your Son and the New Heaven and New Earth where sickness shall be no more.

Zach Schlegel

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