Monday September 21

prayer in times of trouble 

On October 27, 2014, BBC Africa posted on their social media outlets, “Today we are asking the question: ‘Is the widespread panic about #Ebola justified?’—and we’re looking for callers. . . . Statistically, Ebola still kills far fewer people than malaria and other diseases. So why has it dominated the headlines?”

The disease is a scary one, particularly for the countries that are hit hardest by the outbreak. But while the masses, even those living thousands of miles from affected areas, voiced concern about their own safety, I was encouraged by individual believers in Jesus and ministries that chose to pray for those actually suffering from the disease. One parachurch group, Young Life Africa, carried the prayer torch by launching “91 for 91 Prayer for West Africa.”

Why 91? After Young Life Africa staff members in Liberia and Sierra Leone expressed the hope and strength they had been gaining through Psalm 91, the ministry at large decided to call on the body of Christ to pray this passage daily over West Africa.

I joined the prayer group and was humbled and honored to approach God on behalf of those who were truly suffering, not simply fearing for my own health. Together, believers around the world prayed that the West African people would: live in the shelter of the Most High and find rest and refuge in the Lord Almighty (Psalm 91:1); experience God’s rescue from every trap and His protection from the deadly disease (v.3); call to the Lord in their trouble and trust in His name (vv.14-15).

Will you join me today in praying for people affected by serious diseases and other people you know who are in need? Our God is greater than any trial or affliction life can bring. —Roxanne Robbins

read›
Psalm 91:1-16  Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty (v.1).

more›
Read Psalms 25:14, 34:4, 46:1-2, and 103:13 and consider the encouraging words found in these verses.

next›
What words found in Psalm 91 most inspire you? How does prayer move us to draw closer to God and others? 

BibleStudyTools.com: 5 Healing Bible Verses for You and Your Family from biblestudytools on GodTube.