Never before in recent history has our nation and world faced such difficult, chaotic times. In just a matter of months, the Coronavirus pandemic has swept across our globe causing great fear, illness, economic hardship, and most tragically, the loss of many lives. Most of us would have never envisioned the year 2020 to look like this. But here we are.
And in the midst of these uncertain days, millions of people are now also facing potential job loss. Many others already find themselves without a job, and no viable means to support themselves or their families.
One thing to remember, no matter what we may be facing right now, when we’re losing our hope: Jesus is the answer. For every season. For every day. He is with us and cares about all that we’re going through. We may not see an easy solution; we might feel trapped in our situation with seemingly no way out. But Jesus is the way-maker. The miracle worker. He is the One who can set free, open doors, and heal our land. He is the One who multiplied the loaves and fish to feed thousands, and turned the water into wine.
And He promises to carry our burdens and help us through the dark days.
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Dear God,
These uncertain times and constant struggles feel intense right now. We’re weary and worn. We feel exhausted and discouraged. We feel afraid Lord. You know our hearts and you hear our prayers. We don’t know what the future holds, but we know you’re holding us, and we thank you that you’re in all of our tomorrows. Please help us to remember that you are there, close, and you promise never to leave us.
Thank you that you are our Refuge and our Strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Help us to trust you more, to stop wasting so much time just spinning our wheels, distracted and worried, or wrestling in our own strength.
Forgive us Lord for the times we’ve failed to lift our eyes first to you, for the days we’ve forgotten to even come before you. Fill us with the power of your Holy Spirit today; with your strength, your peace, your joy. Fill us with your spiritual wisdom and discernment, and the constant reminders that your presence will go with us, and you will give us rest.
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We ask for your healing and your provision over every part of our lives—physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. We ask that you would make us strong and resilient for the days ahead. We know that you have great purpose for those who believe in your name. Help us not to allow the distractions and struggles of our days tear us down to the point of exhaustion.
We know that your desire is for us to live this life abundantly and free. Thank you that you are greater than anything we face here in this life, and our desire is to reflect your love and light to a world that so desperately needs your hope. We ask that we would walk in your blessing and goodness today. That your face would shine on us. That you would open the right doors for our lives and for our loved ones, that you would close the wrong doors and protect us from those we need to walk away from. Establish the work of our hands and bring to fulfillment all that you have given us to do in these days. We pray that you would make our way purposeful and our footsteps firm out of your goodness and love. Give us a heart of wisdom to hear your voice and make us strong by your huge favor and grace.
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Thank you in advance for every provision, for every miracle, for the victories in our lives that have no other explanation except, “God did this.” We give you the glory and honor for all that you’re doing every day, even in the times we can’t see it all, or fully understand your ways.
Help us to keep our eyes on you and off our circumstances. We love you Lord and we need you today. We’re reminded of our weakness, but we know that in you, we are strong. We lift up our hearts and hands to worship you. Thank you for your great love and care. Thank you that you surround us like a shield. We choose to find rest in you today.
In Jesus’ Name,
Amen
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In Genesis 50:20 we read, “As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today.” God paved the way of freedom for Joseph. Though it wasn't right away, slavery and imprisonment could not keep him contained. For our Lord, in His purposes, had more still in store.
And He will not allow any circumstance, any person, or any job, to hold us back from His blessing, favor, and purpose for our lives. We don't have to worry. Because we belong to Him. And we can trust Him with our days. God is Able—He is more than Able—to turn the toughest, darkest times around for good. He will not waste our pain but will use the difficulty of what we walk through for greater good, to bring blessing and freedom to others.
His Presence is with us and we can be assured that in whatever we face, His plans for us are good.
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God will provide for our needs: “And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19)
His peace is bigger than our troubles: “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)
He promises peace when we trust and keep our minds focused on Him: “You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you.” (Isaiah 26:3)
He offers us true rest when we feel burdened: “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)
He reminds us not to be anxious but instead, to pray: “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)
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His face shines on us: “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)
We can fully trust Him: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)
He tells us to ask for what we need, He can open doors: “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened.” (Matthew 7:7-8)
We do not have to fear, God will help us and strengthen us: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10)
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 Facebook page, for daily encouragement in living strong, free, hope-filled lives. Find her also on Twitter and at her blog www.debbiemcdaniel.com.
This article is part of our Prayer 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.
Serenity Prayer
The Lord’s Prayer
Irish Blessings & Prayers
Morning Prayers
Good Night Prayers
Prayer for Healing
Prayer for Protection
Prayer for God’s Help
Prayer to the Holy Spirit
Prayer for Strength