Peace of Mind in Perilous Times

 Lord, in You, I take refuge. 

Psalm 11:1

A dear friend of mine’s daughter left for college in mid-August. Her husband asked if I would be able to sneak away with her as a surprise for two or three days.   He was anticipating the shock waves of the “empty nest” syndrome.

Last year, after sending my oldest son to college for the first time, I remember the waves of emotions that came randomly when I walked by his room or fixed his favorite food.

So, off we went:   we both were so thankful to get away together, reconnect and refresh our souls.

With a glorious view of the majestic mountains, every morning, we’d have a "cup of joe", and spend time praying and reading our Bibles together. Our prayers mostly centered on our children’s transition into college and high school, our marriages, families, and ministries, but we often ended up praying for the world’s unstable events.

While we were tucked up high like an eagle in its’ nest out of harm’s way on the mountain, the news reported ISIS threats.  Innocent women and children were being assaulted, and Christians beheaded for their profession of faith in Jesus on another mountain hundreds of miles away. 

We felt at a loss of how to pray with all the tragedy in the news. Like the disciples in Luke 11:1, my friend and I called out to God:

“Lord, teach us how to pray.”

I believe in praying God’s Word back to Him. Our Bibles are a great prayer guide! God says His word is like the water that nourishes the earth; it accomplishes His purposes. (Isaiah 55:11)

Praying God’s Word brings perspective and peace that God is on his throne. We can make a difference from our corner of the world through prayer.  

In such unstable times, fear can easily consume our thoughts, but as we pray by faith we find comfort that God is Sovereign, and will work mercifully in response to our prayers according to His will.

I’ve written out Psalm 11 below. Will you join me in praying for our troubled world?

Psalm 11

Lord, in You, I take refuge. How then can you say to me: “Flee like a bird to your mountain.

2For look, the wicked bend their bows; they set their arrows against the strings 

to shoot from the shadows at the upright in heart.

3When the foundations are being destroyed, what can the righteous do?”

4Lord, You are in Your holy temple; You, Lord are on Your heavenly throne.

You observe everyone on earth; Your eyes examine them. 

5Lord, You examine the righteous, but the wicked, those who love violence, 

You hate with a passion.

6On the wicked You say You will rain fiery coals and burning sulfur; 

a scorching wind will be their lot.

7For You are righteous, You love justice; the upright, will see Your face.

Amen.