THURSDAY, APRIL 6
I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people…” —1 Timothy 2:1
Prayer Focus: Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)—Escalating conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has forced many individuals—including hundreds of Church of God families—to flee their homes and seek refuge in other parts of the country and abroad. Local leadership has reported that there are also Church of God congregations in other parts of the country receiving many of these internally displaced families. In the midst of the horrific violence, Church of God leadership in the DRC is utilizing relief funds to purchase and distribute packages of food, water, and basic necessities to nearly 2,000 extremely vulnerable families.
Prayer Starter: Heavenly Father, on this Maundy Thursday, we cannot help but be reminded of the posture of a servant you exemplified for us in Jesus. We are utterly astonished by your capacity to love, heal, and restore. Soften our hearts today, Lord, for the hurting, the hopeless, the oppressed, the weak, the sick, and the lowly. Help us to see from heaven’s perspective that we might pray with conviction and follow up our prayers with faith made alive in action. There’s so much we cannot accomplish on behalf of your people in the Democratic Republic of Congo, but we know that you can work a miracle there. Therefore, we boldly approach your throne of grace and beg you to intervene in the escalating conflict. We ask that you would replace violence with peace; substitute fear with faith; trade persecution for prosperity; and usher in a new season of flourishing for the people of the land. May your church be a light in the midst of the madness, and may your love be ever on display as your people are filled with courage to carry out all that you’ve called them to do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
*To financially come alongside the local church in response to these disasters, and others, donations can be made to Church of God Ministries Disaster Relief. 100 percent of your donation goes to assist Church of God communities affected by, and responding to, disasters globally. For a complete list and more thorough explanation of ongoing disaster response coordinated through Church of God Ministries, visit https://www.jesusisthesubject.org/current-disaster-responses .
All Scripture excerpted from the New International Version unless otherwise indicated.