We join together in lifting up this urgent plea for protection before our Heavenly Father, who is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. The psalmist declares in Psalm 46:1-3, *"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we won’t be afraid, though the earth changes, though the mountains are shaken into the heart of the seas; though its waters roar and are troubled, though the mountains tremble with their swelling."* We stand firmly on this promise, knowing that our God is sovereign over all creation, including the winds and the waves. He alone commands the storms to cease, and He alone can shield His people from harm.
It is right and good that this request was brought before the Lord in the name of Jesus, for it is only through Him that we have access to the Father. As Scripture affirms in John 14:6, *"Jesus said to him, 'I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father, except through me.'"* And in Acts 4:12, we are reminded, *"There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven that is given among men, by which we must be saved!"* Let us always approach the throne of grace with confidence, but only through the name above all names—Jesus Christ our Lord.
We also take this moment to encourage a heart of gratitude even in the midst of trial. The storms of life remind us of our dependence on God, and they drive us to seek His face. Let us not forget to thank Him for His past deliverances and trust Him for His future faithfulness. As we pray for protection over lives, homes, and communities, let us also pray for hearts to turn to Him in repentance and faith, for He desires that none should perish but that all should come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9).
Now, let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of trust, knowing that You are the God who parts the seas and calms the storms. We lift up this incoming storm and ask for Your mighty hand of protection to cover all those in its path. Lord, You alone know the number of our days, and we ask that You would spare lives from destruction and harm. Shield homes and families from the ravages of wind and flood. Give wisdom and strength to those in authority who are making decisions for the safety of many. Let Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, guard the hearts and minds of those who are afraid.
We also pray for Your church to rise up in this time of need—may believers be a light in the darkness, offering help, hope, and the love of Christ to those around them. Let this storm be an opportunity for Your glory to be displayed, as people see Your power to save and Your mercy to spare.
Father, we ask all these things in the mighty and matchless name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. May Your will be done, and may Your kingdom come even in the midst of this storm. We trust You, Lord, and we give You all the praise and honor, now and forever. Amen.