Leawood, Kansas, United States - The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection Daily Guide grow. pray. study. for Sunday, 3 August 2014 "Prayer Tip"

Leawood, Kansas, United States - The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection Daily Guide grow. pray. study. for Sunday, 3 August 2014 "Prayer Tip"
Prayer Tip:
This week the world seems to be even less peaceful than usual. Terrible conflicts and horrible loss of life in multiple locations, local political campaigns calling names and slinging mud, violent crimes. This week, let's pray for peace. Peace in the world. Peace in the hearts and lives of everyone we see each day. Peace in our own hearts and lives.
Before you begin:
• Be silent for a few minutes. Listen to your body, feel each breath. Let the peace of God's presence wash over you as you put aside the cares of your day for this time. Lay them aside. You can always pick them right back up later.
• Pray for peace in all the areas of conflict in the world. How does watching the news of wars and violence around the globe and in your own area make you feel? Does reading or watching the news make you feel anxious? Reflect on Jesus words:
"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." – John 16:33
• Next, pray for peace in your own life. Ask God to quiet the fears and concerns you are carrying, and replace them with his own peace. Jesus said:
"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:27
• Pray for all the people in your life, and those you encounter each day – friends, family, neighbors, coworkers, and strangers you will pass on the street or meet in the coffee shop or in line at the grocery store.
Ask God to grant them full knowledge of this verse from Philippians:
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
If you like, you can end your prayer time with this ancient blessing:
Deep peace of the quiet earth to us all
Deep peace of the shining stars to us all
Deep peace of the gentle night to us all
Moon and stars pour out their healing light to us all
Deep peace to us all, deep peace to us all.Amen.(Jennifer Creagar, Coordinating Assistant - Prayer)
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