When I first
heard about the indescribably horrific mass shooting at a Newtown, Connecticut
elementary school today, my eyes welled up with tears and my heart immediately broke
for the family, friends, and residents of this devastated community.
According to news reports, 27 lives, 18 of which were children, were senselessly snatched away with no warning, rhyme or reason.
Just like that, everything shifted and changed in the lives of those impacted. And as a nation, we collectively mourn the loss of life.
In moments like this, there are no right words to say, effective comforts to offer, or answers to give.
So we pray.
We cry out to God and ask for the peace, strength, and consolation only He can give.
As a mother of 4 sweet children, I cannot imagine the heart-wrenching agony the victims’ parents must be feeling right now. Never having one of my children’s lives snuffed out by a murderous villain, I have no way of knowing what deep, unbearable ache of the soul mothers and fathers who must bury their children feel right now.
God be with them is my prayer.
This is the same pettion of my heart for everyone facing difficulty, struggle, and hardship today. Although those around you may not be able to ease pain, sew up wounds, or heal brokenness, God is able.
We may not know why tragedies happen or the reason behind our suffering, but we can know with a surety that the Lord is there with us even through our deepest valleys.
To remind you of this truth, I’m stirring Psalm 34:18 NIV into your cup of inspiration. It says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
When you drink down the contents of your cup, you will be reminded that even when we are crushed, broken, grief-stricken, or drowning in a deep sea of sorrows, God is right there with us.
He will hold us in the cradle of His arms and nurture us in His bosom.
So whatever you may be facing today know that God is near and will comfort you through it.
Now let’s pray.
Father, I pray that you will “provide for those who grieve in Zion--to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair,” according to Isaiah 61:3. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
As always, thanks for reading and until next time... may today's cup of inspiration uplift, encourage, and empower you!
If you need prayer, don't hesitate to request it. I would be honored to stand in faith with You. I know that prayer works. CLICK HERE to learn how to submit your prayer request.
