Before Hurricane Michael - October 10, 2018

Father God, there are so many of us on both sides of this storm, within it and looking at it from the outside, who are praying for miracles today: that the storm would quiet it's rage, that shifts in the wind would be in our favor, that the damage can be overcome, that we and our loved ones remain safe and unhurt and that property is recoverable. Lord, hear our prayer.

We lift up the first responders, support teams, people who have to work at local businesses. Father, we ask an extra measure of blessing, protection and provision for them and their families as they travel and help the best they can. Lord, hear our prayer.

Father, we thank You that You are already working in the recovery process with tools needed, cooperation from insurance agencies, neighbors linking arms to help one another and our reliance upon You to make crooked paths straight. Lord, hear our prayer.

Holy Spirit, we ask that if we are tempted to be short with one another today that instead, You would give us words of hope, encouragement and laughter. Help us be a team. Help us quiet any fears in ourselves and in our babies. Lord, hear our prayer.

Father, help those who evacuated get home safely, quiet their anxious hearts and provide clear roads soon. Lord, hear our prayer.

Father, You are a mighty God with power beyond the storm and we trust You love us bigger than anything coming our way. Today, and all days, we keep our eyes on You - not at the lions at our back or the giant in front or at any armies that may surround us - but You. Lord, we love You and together, we lay this prayer at the foot of the cross in Jesus' mighty name. AMEN.