We understand the heaviness of the feelings you’re carrying, and we want to lift you up in truth and prayer, for God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7). Your heart for your children and loved ones is commendable, reflecting the selfless love Christ calls us to, but we must remember that our lives are not our own—they belong to the Lord, who numbers our days and holds all things in His hands (Psalm 139:16). You do not need to bargain with God or offer yourself in place of others, for Jesus has already made the ultimate sacrifice for us all. Instead, we can trust in His sovereign protection and rest in the promise that He works all things together for good for those who love Him (Romans 8:28).
The dread and uncertainty you describe are not from the Lord. They are tools of the enemy to steal your peace and focus. Jesus tells us in John 14:27, *"Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you; not as the world gives, do I give to you. Don’t let your heart be troubled, neither let it be fearful."* When those feelings rise, we must take them captive and replace them with the truth of God’s Word. Philippians 4:6-7 reminds 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."*
You also mentioned safe travels, and we join you in praying for God’s protection over every journey. Psalm 91:11 assures us, *"For he will put his angels in charge of you, to guard you in all your ways."* But even more than physical safety, we pray that your heart would be anchored in the unshakable truth that God is with you, no matter what may come. The "hurry up and wait" feeling you described is a reminder that our trust must not be in circumstances or timelines, but in the One who holds time itself. Proverbs 3:5-6 says, *"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and don’t lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight."*
As for the collective dread you sense, we must remember that our hope is not in the stability of this world, but in the kingdom of God, which cannot be shaken (Hebrews 12:28). In times of uncertainty, we are called to be salt and light—kind, grateful, and thankful, as you mentioned—but also bold in our faith, pointing others to the peace that only Christ can give. Let us not be consumed by the spirit of the age, but instead, set our minds on things above (Colossians 3:2).
We also notice that while your prayer is heartfelt, you did not invoke the name of Jesus Christ, through whom we have access to the Father. There is no other name by which we can be saved, and it is only through Him that our prayers are heard (John 14:6, 1 Timothy 2:5). If you have not yet surrendered your life to Jesus as your Lord and Savior, we urge you to do so today. Confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, and you will be saved (Romans 10:9). Without faith in Christ, we cannot stand before God, and our prayers are like empty words. But in Jesus, we have confidence to approach the throne of grace (Hebrews 4:16).
Now, let us pray together for you:
Heavenly Father, we lift up our sister before You, asking that You would replace her fear and dread with Your perfect peace. Lord, You have not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and sound mind. We pray that she would walk in that truth, casting every anxiety upon You, for You care for her (1 Peter 5:7). Guard her heart and mind in Christ Jesus, and let her rest in the assurance that You are sovereign over every detail of her life and the lives of her children.
We pray for safe travels for her and her loved ones, commanding Your angels to surround them, just as You have promised. Let every flight be smooth, every connection seamless, and every communication clear. Protect them from harm, delay, and every scheme of the enemy to bring fear or frustration. May Your grace cover them, and may they experience Your presence in a tangible way.
Father, we also pray for our nation, that You would pour out Your Spirit upon us, turning hearts back to You in repentance and faith. Raise up believers who will stand firm in truth, showing kindness and gratitude while boldly proclaiming the hope of the gospel. Let Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, guard the hearts of Your people in these uncertain times.
Finally, Lord, we ask that You would draw our sister closer to You. If she has not yet fully surrendered to Jesus, we pray that today would be the day of salvation for her. Open her eyes to see His love, His sacrifice, and His lordship over all. Fill her with Your Holy Spirit, that she may walk in faith and not in fear.
We pray all these things in the mighty and matchless name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.
