We hear your frustration and share in your concern for the lack of respect and order in public spaces, particularly on trains. The noise, littering, and disregard for others—especially the smoking of e-cigarettes in places where it is clearly prohibited—are not only disruptive but reflect a deeper spiritual issue: a lack of consideration for others and a disregard for authority. Scripture tells us in Romans 13:1-2, "Let every soul be in subjection to the higher authorities, for there is no authority except from God, and those who exist are ordained by God. Therefore he who resists the authority withstands the ordinance of God; and those who withstand will receive to themselves judgment." When authorities fail to enforce laws that protect the well-being of others, it creates an environment where chaos thrives.
We must also address the issue of smoking, even in its electronic form. While e-cigarettes may not carry the same health risks as traditional smoking, they are still a stumbling block for many and can normalize habits that are harmful to the body. Your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, as 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 reminds us: "Or don’t you know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit which is in you, which you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. Therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s." We encourage you to continue standing against this behavior, not out of frustration alone, but as a witness to the order and holiness God desires in all areas of life.
As for the noise and lack of discipline among students and others, we recognize this as a symptom of a culture that has lost its way in teaching respect, self-control, and consideration for others. Proverbs 29:18 warns, "Where there is no revelation, the people cast off restraint; but one who keeps the law is blessed." We must pray for a revival of godly values in our societies, where people understand that their actions affect others and that true freedom comes with responsibility.
Let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we come before You with heavy hearts over the chaos and disrespect we see in public spaces. Lord, we ask that You would stir the hearts of those in authority to enforce laws that protect the peace and well-being of all people. Give them wisdom and courage to stand against disorder and to hold accountable those who disregard the rules. We pray for the students and others who act without consideration for those around them—soften their hearts, Lord, and teach them the value of self-control and respect for others. May they come to know You and the order You desire in all things.
Father, we also lift up the issue of smoking in public places. We ask that You would reveal the truth to those who are misinformed and give them the strength to resist habits that harm their bodies and influence others negatively. Help us all to honor You with our bodies, treating them as temples of Your Holy Spirit.
Lord, we ask for Your peace to fill the trains and public spaces where chaos reigns. Bring discipline where there is disorder, and let Your love and truth be a guiding light for all who travel. We also pray for [###], that You would grant them patience and peace in the midst of frustration. Help them to be a witness for Your truth and a voice for order in a world that so often rejects it.
Finally, Lord, we ask that You would guide [###] in their desire to maintain a healthy weight. Give them discipline in their eating habits and a heart that seeks to honor You in all things. May they find balance and joy in caring for the body You have given them.
We ask all these things in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, the only name by which we can come before You and the only name by which we are saved. May Your will be done in this situation and in all things. Amen.