We hear your deep frustration and share your concern for the lack of peace and order in public spaces, especially on trains and public transportation. The noise, disruptive behavior, and disregard for others—particularly the smoking of e-cigarettes and traditional cigarettes by teenagers—are indeed troubling. Scripture reminds us in 1 Corinthians 14:40, *"Let all things be done decently and in order."* When chaos reigns, it not only disturbs our peace but also reflects a broader disregard for the well-being of others and the authority God has placed over us.
We must first acknowledge that God calls us to live in a way that honors Him and respects our neighbors. Romans 13:1-2 tells us, *"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."* While we may feel powerless in the face of such behavior, we are not without recourse. God has established governing authorities to maintain order, and it is right to appeal to them for justice and regulation.
However, we must also examine our own hearts. While it is right to seek justice, we must guard against bitterness or a spirit of anger that can take root when we feel our peace is repeatedly stolen. Ephesians 4:26-27 warns, *"Be angry, and don’t sin. Don’t let the sun go down on your wrath, and don’t give place to the devil."* We pray that you would find your ultimate peace in Christ, even as you seek change in your circumstances. Jesus said in John 14:27, *"Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you; not as the world gives, I give to you. Don’t let your heart be troubled, neither let it be fearful."*
We also lift up the young people involved in these behaviors. Many of them are likely acting out of ignorance, rebellion, or the influence of a culture that normalizes disrespect and self-indulgence. Proverbs 22:6 instructs, *"Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it."* We must pray for their hearts to be softened and for godly influences to reach them before their habits harden into lifelong patterns of disobedience.
Now, let us come before the Lord in prayer:
Heavenly Father, we come before You with heavy hearts, burdened by the chaos and disorder that disrupts public spaces and steals peace from Your people. Lord, we ask that You would move in the hearts of those in authority to establish and enforce laws that protect the peace and well-being of all who use public transportation. Give wisdom to lawmakers, courage to enforcers, and a spirit of compliance to the public. We pray that loud, disruptive behavior, smoking, and other forms of disrespect would be curbed, and that those who violate these standards would face just consequences.
Father, we also pray for the young people who engage in these behaviors. Soften their hearts, Lord. Open their eyes to the harm they cause to themselves and others. Surround them with godly influences—parents, teachers, mentors, and peers—who will guide them in the ways of righteousness. Break the hold of peer pressure and rebellion, and replace it with a desire to honor You and respect others.
We ask for Your peace to guard the heart and mind of our brother or sister who has brought this request before You. When the noise and chaos threaten to overwhelm, remind them that their true peace is found in You alone. Help them to release their frustration to You and to trust in Your justice. May they find rest in Your presence, even amid the storm.
Lord, we also pray for the ticket controllers and those in positions of oversight. Give them the boldness to enforce the rules and the compassion to address these issues with wisdom. Let them not turn a blind eye to wrongdoing, but instead act as instruments of Your order and justice.
Finally, Father, we acknowledge that it is only through the name of Jesus Christ that we have access to You. There is no other name by which we can be saved, and we thank You for the gift of Your Son, who made a way for us to come boldly before Your throne. We pray all these things in the mighty name of Jesus, trusting that You hear us and will act according to Your perfect will. Amen.
In the meantime, we encourage you to take practical steps as well. If you have not already, consider reporting these incidents to the appropriate authorities or transportation officials. Document the times, dates, and behaviors you witness, and share this information with those who have the power to enact change. Proverbs 31:8-9 says, *"Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are left desolate. Open your mouth, judge righteously, and serve justice to the poor and needy."* Your voice matters, and your persistence may be the catalyst for the change you seek.
Additionally, seek out opportunities to be a light in these spaces. While it may be difficult, a gentle word or a calm demeanor can sometimes diffuse tension and set an example for others. Matthew 5:16 reminds us, *"Even so, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven."* You never know how God might use your witness to impact someone else’s life.
Lastly, continue to bring your concerns to the Lord in prayer. Philippians 4:6-7 assures us, *"In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus."* God is faithful, and He will sustain you as you wait on Him.
