HOW SHOULD I PRAY?

As we face the Coronavirus Pandemic, Romans 12:12 gives us guidance:

1. “Rejoice in hope” or as the NIV says “be joyful in hope.” As believers in the Lord Jesus Christ we of all people should have hope. Our hope is secure in Him regardless of what may be happening currently in the world around us. We can rejoice in hope because of God’s promises to us. 

2. “Be patient in affliction.” The Bible does not promise that we are exempt from afflictions. Because we live in a fallen world, we along with unbelievers will face threats of all kinds; flooding, tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes, sickness, and viruses. Paul urges us to persevere or be patient as we face this pandemic. 

3. “Be persistent in prayer.” This is one of our core values as a church. Whatever circumstance we face, it should drive us to prayer. We worship the glory of God, are thankful for His many blessings,  confess our sin, and ask the Lord to intervene in our and others lives. Be persistent in praying for this pandemic to cease and for the lives of many people be spared. You can use the attached 7-Day Prayer Guide that was produced by Lifeway. You can pray for each of the seven groups daily or pray for one group each day. Be specific as possible as your pray. So, on the first day make a list of people you know are sick and pray for their healing. Then on the second day make a list of healthcare workers you know and pray for them. Then follow this pattern for each day.
   

A 7-DAY CORONAVIRUS PRAYER GUIDE

PRAY FOR THE SICK - Pray for those who are sick, and their families, that the Lord would heal and comfort them.

PRAY FOR HEALTHCARE WORKERS - Pray for those on the frontlines treating those who are sick, that he Lord would protect and strengthen them.

PRAY FOR THE VULNERABLE - Pray for those who are especially vulnerable to disease, that the sickness would pass over them and that they would rely on others for help.

PRAY FOR THE UNEMPLOYED - Pray for those who have lost work, that God would provide through their families and communities.

PRAY FOR OUR LEADERS - Pray for national and local government leaders, that they would have wisdom to do what is best for all.

PRAY FOR STUDENTS AND FAMILIES - Pray for students who are out of school, and their families, that the Lord would give them patience and discipline.

PRAY FOR CHURCHES - Pray for churches and ministry leaders, that they would know how to best show the love of Christ in this time.

Find Strength in God’s Word

Many people are struggling with fear because of this pandemic. Take the time to read the Bible passages listed and pray asking God to alleviate your fears and give you courage to walk with Him by faith in His promises.

Deuteronomy 31:6

Joshua 1:9

Psalm 23

Psalm 118:6

Nahum 1:7

John 14:27

John 16:33

Romans 5:1

Romans 8:6

Romans 15:33

Romans 16:20

Galatians 5:22-23

Philippians 4:6-8

Colossians 3:15

2 Timothy 1:7

1 John 4:18

Use This Time to Minister  to People and Share the Gospel

Look around you for opportunities to minister to your neighborhood and to senior adults that you know. Offer to get groceries and/or medicine for them. In times of crises, people tend to be more responsive to the Gospel. Be sure to share the Gospel when you have the opportunity.