You take care of the earth and water it,
making it rich and fertile.
The river of God has plenty of water;
it provides a bountiful harvest of grain, for You have ordered it so.
You drench the plowed ground with rain,
melting the clods and leveling the ridges.
You soften the earth with showers,
and bless its abundant crops.
You crown the year with a bountiful harvest;
even the hard pathways overflow with abundance.
The grasslands of the wilderness become a lush pasture,
and the hillsides blossom with joy.
Psalm 65:9-12
"On July 22, Norway was shocked by a terrorist attack in the capital city of Oslo, where 77 people were killed. Slowly we have understood the extent of this catastrophe, and there have been strong reactions. Fear, anger, disbelief and shock are some of the expressions we see in the face of this unspeakable tragedy. In these difficult times, many are visiting churches and congregations to be closer to God, for fellowship and comfort. Many people have questions about life and death.
"The reactions of the Norwegian people in the days after the disaster show that the terror attack had a completely different effect than was intended. The terrorist failed in his attempt. When thousands of people go into the streets and stand united for peace and reconciliation, it shows clearly that good is much stronger than the evil that tries to destroy. The disaster has not only united our nation, but has put souls on fire. Never before have entire streets in Oslo been closed because of flowers. About 40,000 were expected to join the parade in memory of the victims, but close to 200,000 came. When so many stand together, we show the world that we are not afraid and we are not angry. "Sickness and death, terror and pain are a part of life. But for all those who follow Jesus, we are not alone.
Philippians 4:6 says, 'Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus' (NKJV). "We do not respond evil for evil, but we fight evil with good. And this is also our prayer for the church, that with this love that God has shown us, we will win. Our thoughts go to all those affected and those who have lost someone in this tragedy. We pray for the Norwegian people and want to stand with them in every way."
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| OM founder George Verwer prays for the world. |
Christian families are being targeted in Iraq and dozens have been murdered. Right now around 500 families are moving to safer areas. This means leaving everything behind. Please pray strength and provision for these believers. Pray Jesus would touch the hearts of those persecuting them and that the violence would end. Ask God to comfort those who have lost family members in the violence. Thank you for praying.
