Dear God and Savior, as we remember the tragic events of September 11, 2001 that unleashed their wicked fury on our nation, our people, and our world, we turn to you in prayer, for you are the Lord of all.
The Lord our God is God in heaven above, and on earth below. Joshua 2:11
Today we remember those who still grieve the death or loss of family or friends as a result of the attacks. Relieve the pain of their loss with the peace that this world cannot give. Assure them of your sovereignty and strength. Through your gracious promises lead them to acknowledge that your ways are always higher than our ways. Let them trust in you and seek your saving help now and always.
The Lord reigns forever. He will judge the world in righteousness; he will govern the peoples with justice. The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. Psalm 9:7-9
Give to any who remember that day with sorrow, and any who must persevere because of its trouble, a new hope found in your great love, seeking your divine compassion through Christ our Savior, hoping in you, confident of your love.
I remember my affliction, and my soul is downcast within me. Yet I have hope: Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him. Lamentations 3:19,20,22,25
Foreign attacks and terrorism have continued to escalate, God, and remind us that even our powerful nation, the United States of America, is vulnerable. Teach us to respect military might, and strive to carry authority in the world, but to fear, love, and trust your might and authority above all.
No king is saved by the size of his army; no warrior escapes by his great strength. But the eyes of the Lord are on those who fear him, on those whose hope is in his unfailing love. Psalm 33:16,18
Through economic recessions, loss of employment and investments, other attacks and a global pandemic, Lord, you have continued to keep your promise that provides seasons of harvest, available food and medicine, support for the less fortunate, and even prosperity for personal conveniences and luxuries.
When you eat and are satisfied, be careful that you do not forget the Lord. Deuteronomy 6:11,12
Merciful God, forgive each of our own unholy desires for personal revenge that refuses mercy, forgive our biased and blind judgments full of unfair bigotry and hatred, we confess our sins and trust in your grace and guidance.
Do not seek revenge, or bear a grudge against one of your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. Leviticus 19:18
In everything we say and do, let our love for you express itself by loving others.
That they may receive mercy as a result of God’s mercy to us. Romans 11:31
Guide our government, military leaders, law enforcement personnel, and all peace-keeping institutions. Equip all who serve with determination and wisdom to wield the sword of justice responsibly.
The authorities that exist have been established by God. They are God’s servants to do you good, and bring punishment on the wrongdoer. Romans 13:1,4
Lead us, your church, to appreciate the religious freedoms we enjoy in our land, grateful for the rights to practice the one, true, Christian faith and to worship you, our triune God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Shine through the light of our Christian witnessing, that many more in our nation may turn to you in faith and call on you as Lord.
The plans of the Lord stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations. Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord. Psalm 33:11,12
PRAYER: Dear God and Savior, we remember the tragic events of September 11, 2001. Give us security and hope found in your promises. Guide our government. Lead us, your church, to appreciate the religious freedoms we enjoy in our land. Shine through your truth and love that we practice in your name. Amen.
MEDITATION: Go back and spend time praying your own words based on the Bible verses above.
