Sunday, August 26, 2007

To exchange ashes for roses


To all who mourn in Israel, [God] will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair. In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks that the Lord has planted for his own glory. Isaiah 61:3 (NLT)

God our Shield and Fortress, I pray for a weary pastor. He has seen the Enemy prowling nearby, sated from a recent victory, and my friend grows tired from grief and strain. Send your angels to keep watch over his family as they cling together; do not let them lose heart! Give them reminders of beauty, moments of praise to inspire their souls, and send their roots deep so that they sway in the storm but do not break. Send this family your refreshing rain, and let them find healing in your waters. May this season of heartbreak and despair pass into one of renewal and splendor for the sake of your Name and in the sight of your people.


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