“But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!” (Galatians 5:22-23 NLT)

I have been in South Carolina with my daughter and her family for about a month, and most of that time, one or both of my granddaughters slept with me. Nights were wiggly and giggly, but I enjoyed every minute, even the kicks in the middle of the night or Evie’s flailing arms. Last night Jenna read from her Devotions for Girls to her sister and me. Her voice was soft and reverent as she read the verse of the day and continued to read the author’s thoughts. I don’t think it coincident that it meant the scripture she read for such times as these. It concerned the importance of praying for our leaders. This gentle one, who seems wise beyond her years, spoke the truth.

“I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity.” (1 Timothy 2:1-2 NLT)

An excellent lesson for us all in these trying times. How appropriate these verses are in these baffling times. Even at her young age, she seemed to grasp the urgency of these petitions to our Savior. After reading the bible verses from 1 Timothy; she prayed a prayer that would rival any adult. She prayed for our country and its leaders, for people hurt by the virus, and a special prayer of protection for her mommy, who is receiving chemotherapy and is vulnerable to any infection. In her heartfelt prayer, she didn’t forget to be thankful for her family, for her home, and even thanked the Lord for her warm bed.

How many of us adults remember to be grateful to our Heavenly Father for what He has blessed us with, even in these difficult times? As we all weather this current storm, we may put it the right perspective and be grateful for all we have with childlike faith. May we be thankful for our homes, our health, and warm beds to cuddle up in at night. Let us live peaceful lives in all godliness and holiness and pray for everyone.

Jeanie Nihiser
Volunteer and Prayer Warrior with Answers2Prayer Ministries
“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” (Isaiah 40:31 NIV)