November 2001
United in Prayer We Stand
By Germaine Copeland
The nightmarish event of September 11, 2001, crashed into our normal daily routines and America is fighting back. Each morning we listen for the latest developments in our country, Afghanistan and other nations. The terrorists would have us become fearful, but in this time of uncertainty Americans are relying on their faith. Jesus said, “I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more” (Luke 12:4 NIV).
We are singing our National Anthem with great courage and pride, and prayer has become a national practice. “America the Beautiful” and “God Bless America” are no longer just nice songs; but harmonious united prayers resounding from sea to shining sea, from nation to nation. We recite our Pledge of Allegiance – “one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all” with renewed energy.
United prayer is a powerful weapon that has and will defeat the plans of those opposed to freedom and righteousness. President Bush said, “We’re at war. There has been an act of war declared upon America by terrorists, and we will respond accordingly.” Men and women from the United States and Great Britain are fighting a new kind of war; intelligence agencies are working twenty-four hours a day for our protection and preservation. We who are called by the name of our God must respond as watchmen on the wall, alert, watching and praying. We were chosen for such a time as this.
“America United” or “United We Stand” are becoming trademarks – slogans of our times. During a time of war everyone is needed – everyone can do something. We who stay at home can pray – standing shoulder to shoulder in orderly array, clothed in God’s armor, praying with all manner of prayer and entreaty.
The people of the world are praying for America. I spoke to a woman from Kenya who assured me that her people are praying for our President and our nation. Her husband, a pastor, is praying and called his members together for an all night prayer meeting on behalf of America.
Friends share an Email from Kampala, Uganda. A pastor writes, “This week I have been in prayer and fasting and of course America was included in my prayers. The reasons I pray for USA are: 1) USA are peace makers 2) This battle could turn out to be a battle between the children of Hagar and Sarai.”
He continues to reveal how God spoke to him from Psalm 64. “This battle will be won on our knees. I would encourage you to stay united in prayer for USA. God will bring something good out of this mess.” From many lands they send us assurance — they are asking God to lead our president as he makes decision.
United in prayer we stand. Commit to pray for President Bush, his Cabinet, Congress and all the people of our land, remembering those who have lost friends and loved ones. United in prayer we stand declaring Jesus is Lord over the United States of America. We stand for freedom, goodness, mercy and justice, and against the terrorist network – Satan’s instruments of destruction. United in prayer we stand counting it all joy — the joy of the Lord is our strength, displacing fear and depression. United in prayer we stand, offering prayers with thanksgiving to the Father.
The Lord brings the counsel of the nations (terrorists) to nought; He makes the thoughts and the plans of the peoples of no effect. The counsel of the Lord stands forever, the thoughts of His heart through all generations (Psalm 33:10&11). There are many prayers in my Prayers That Avail Much book series that will increase your faith and prepare you to minister to others who are in need.
PRAYER
Father, in the name of Jesus, we praise you and offer up thanksgiving because the day of the Lord is near – Jesus is coming soon. Therefore, we will not fret or have any anxiety about the terrorism that is threatening the lives of those stationed on foreign soil, and we who are at home. In this circumstance and in everything by prayer and petition [definite requests] with thanksgiving we continue to make our wants known to You. Our petition is that terrorism be stopped before it spreads.
We purpose not to be afraid of the terror of the night, nor of the arrow [the evil plots and slanders of the wicked] that flies by day, nor of the pestilence that stalks in darkness, nor of the destruction and sudden death that surprise and lay waste at noonday. We are established on righteousness in conformity with Your will and order. Amen.
(Excerpts from “Protection From Terrorism” – Prayers That Avail Much Commemorative Edition)
Germaine Copeland is the author of the best selling book series, Prayers That Avail Much. She has written scriptural prayers for the family. Read your Bible, pray and attend church where you can soak up the love and faith of God. You will receive emotional healing, experience spiritual growth and become more intimately acquainted with your Heavenly Father, and your relationships will grow stronger.