“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6, 7)
Along with this text, there are a lot of Bible verses that portray prayer as a warrior’s activity. We use the phrase “prayer warrior,” but it sometimes sounds more like a personal hobby rather than an aggressive battle plan. Prayer is an act of war against the devil’s agenda to derail God’s people with fear or distractions. Group prayer is especially intense because we’re also able to actively support each other on the spot as well as praying for the church’s mission.
This last Sabbath, I had the privilege of praying with church family for the future of education and families in our conference. Many would agree that this upcoming school term is full of uncertainties. Family life always has its share of potential challenges (as well as joys) but we wanted to lift up families especially at this point. Last school year was definitely unusual and tough for many families since many state restrictions made remote, virtual learning necessary. Last year had its share of challenges for parents and kids. Attending classes on a screen doesn’t have half the interest that an in-person class would have and having to stay in one house or apartment for days on end would be enough to wear on anyone, adults included. We need to keep our young families, our homeschooling groups, our young students, our teachers, our school staff, our Pathfinder and Adventurer Club Leaders and many others in prayer as we head into this school year. Pray for wisdom for our leaders, strength for our students, energy for our parents, health and protection for all, and most of all, confidence as we step out into the future with God.
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13) We can look to the future with boldness because we’re trusting in Him. Let’s pray more intensely and confidently because of God’s power!
To read a brief summary of the Upper Columbia Conference’s school reopening plan, click the following link: https://www.uccsda.org/update-reopening-ucc-schools
Also, for families who would like some fresh, creative projects and constructive activities for their kids, click this link: https://www.childmin.org/virtual-resources