Seek, Pray, Turn

Today, I am worried for several reasons and weighed down by many concerns. There are beloved members of our church family facing complex health challenges, whether in hospitals or other care situations. Our hearts are burdened for them, and we lift them in prayer, asking for God's healing hand and the peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7). We remember the words of James 5:15, trusting that "the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up."

Beyond our church walls, we face challenging issues in our city, state, nation, and world. Our community of Memphis is grappling with high-profile court trials. We seek God's justice and wisdom in these difficult matters (Micah 6:8). In East Tennessee, we are reminded of the devastation caused by recent weather disasters, and we pray for comfort and restoration for all those affected, knowing that God is "a very present help in trouble" (Psalm 46:1).

At the national level, the presidential election cycle stirs uncertainty and division. Still, we remember that God is sovereign over all authorities (Romans 13:1). May we, as believers, seek to reflect Christ in how we engage in these discussions, rooted in love and truth (Ephesians 4:15).

Lastly, our hearts ache for the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, where lives are being lost and tensions continue to rise. As the world seems to teeter on the edge of even greater conflict, we cry out for peace, trusting in the promise of Isaiah 2:4 that one day, swords will be beaten into plowshares, and nations will no longer learn war. We pray for God's intervention, for the protection of innocent lives, and for His peace to reign in the midst of chaos.

As we reflect on these concerns, we are reminded of Paul's words in Romans 12:12: "Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer." Let us respond not in fear but in faith, lifting our eyes to the Lord, the author of peace and the source of our hope (Romans 15:13).

May the love of Christ guide our thoughts, ease our burdens, and strengthen our spirits as we navigate these trials together.

Serving Him,
Pastor Jeff