A prayer in troubled times

Father, I look at the news now, I look at social media, and I see so much evil in this world.

It’s so easy to be troubled.

But you have chosen your church, and we are holy and deeply loved in your sight. (Colossians 3:12)

Help us to remember who we are.

And as we do, help us to put away the anger and wrath that marks this world, and to be renewed according to your image. (8, 10)

Help us to put on compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, wrapping it all with your love. (12-14)

And let your peace rule in our hearts. (15)

Let your Word dwell among us richly, as we in all wisdom teach and admonish one another through psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing to you with gratitude in our hearts. (16)

And in whatever we do, whether in word or deed, let us do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, ever marked by a grateful heart for all you’ve done for us. (17)

In this troubled world, let us not be ruled by anger or fear, but by your joy, love, and peace. In Jesus’ name, amen.