4 Now, Israel, hear the decrees and laws I am about to teach you. Follow them so that you may live and may go in and take possession of the land the Lord, the God of your ancestors, is giving you. 2 Do not add to what I command you and do not subtract from it, but keep the commands of the Lord your God that I give you. – Deuteronomy 4:1-2
Lord, we see videos of reckless and dangerous behavior, violent behavior in Memphis, and we react from home. Lord, help us to know our neighbor. We can’t change the culture behind a screen. Lord, it’s risky. We worry about the world’s reaction to us encroaching on its domain. But Lord, remind us, that You created the world and it was good. Man fell, not you. We are to take the land for You, just as you commanded the Israelites. Our battles, Lord, are won with You, a closeness to You. We must seek You. May we keep it simple Lord.
Forgive us Lord for straying. We pray for a return to You, a revival of the Holy Spirit that bears much fruit. We pray for protection and blessing of those trying to do good work, like the leaders and community-minded in Westwood. We pray for Melvin Cole and Youth Villages. We pray for moms and dads that are tired but still committed to raising their children and those that show up in their homes. Lord, we are not meant to live alone. Bless us with abundance that we may shower Your goodwill and treasure on those around us.
Lord, clean up Beale Street. Videos of lawlessness and shootings are too common now. Turn the hearts of those thinking this is youthful fun to you. We pray for our police officers, walking a line of authority and restraint. Protect them. Encourage them. Guide them.
Lord, we need You now always. In Christ’s name, Amen.