What first comes to mind when we think of loving our neighbors? Maybe we think of the family we’ve known for decades next door, our neighborhood, or even the city we live in. But what if we continued to look even further? Sometimes the news that we encounter or the posts that we see are from places we may think are much too far away for us to make an impact.
Even through conflict and rising feelings of hopelessness, we can come together in prayer for the world. As we talk with God, may we continue to remember the power of prayer and the reassurance of hope from the peace that comes from the Lord.
It can be easy to think that our prayers won’t make a difference, especially when we’re unable to see the work that God is currently doing. And yet, as Ephesians 6:16 states, “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people” (NIV). This reminder to pray for all the Lord’s people can be encouraging, especially with knowing that when we’re praying, the scope is so large! God hears and listens.
While conflict, suffering, and pain across the world can leave us in despair, we can look to God for hope and peace. We may not understand why these things are happening, but even God’s peace goes beyond our understanding. John 14:27 says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (NIV). May we be encouraged in our prayer for the nations, knowing that God’s peace surpasses even what the world sees peace to be, knowing that His presence is with those whom we pray for.
Maybe you want to pray for the nations with intentionality or invest time in using your skills to journey alongside fellow believers to share the hope and peace that God provides. If you’d like to learn more about what being a prayer partner looks like or how to use the skills you have today to serve and continue to love our neighbors near and far, we, here at OM, have resources that can help you learn more and get involved.
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