Tag: Prayer

God,

It is consistent.

He read the tea leaves, stayed away.

Like in October—walked away.

On the margins, he came back. But never found himself in charge.

How to lead a sect, if so?

God, bless him in this time of void.

Bless his community. What to do next?

Who will get the vacant votes?

Will they go to the Shiites—strengthen Iran?

Or civil society, however dispersed?

Might it stay in the family, his brother to rise?

Or boycott entire, invalidate all?

Some say: Extremism.

God, others are hoping the others will fall.

Shiite, Druze, Christian, each in their turn.

Wipe clean the deck. Build anew with the youth.

But maybe it’s simple? His money ran dry,

And without a patron, no campaign to run.

So in comes Kuwait with an offer to all.

Disarm the militia, come back to good terms.

Other proposals are easy enough. But this one impossible, per the UN.

What home have the Sunnis?

A new era dawns.

(Or not. Some say this is simply more of the same.)

God, it is hard to pray for a sect.

Move them together? Break clientele bonds?

Do you wish them a leader—righteous and just?

Or personal agency—each his own way?

Speak to their hearts, God. Move in their midst.

Help each to be mindful that your will be done.

Prosper, yes. Empower true.

But only you can fill the vacuum that resides in human soul.

Let no pale impression stand.

Amen.

To receive Lebanon Prayer by WhatsApp, please click this link to join the closed comments group.

Lebanon Prayer places before God the major events of the previous week, asking his favor for the nation living through them.

It seeks for values common to all, however differently some might apply them. It honors all who strive on her behalf, however suspect some may find them.

It offers no solutions, but desires peace, justice, and reconciliation. It favors no party, but seeks transparency, consensus, and national sovereignty.

How God sorts these out is his business. Consider joining in prayer that God will bless the people and establish his principles, from which all our approximations derive.

Sometimes prayer can generate more prayer. While mine is for general principles, you may have very specific hopes for Lebanon. You are welcome to post these here as comments, that others might pray with you as you place your desires before God.

If you wish to share your own prayer, please adhere to the following guidelines:

1) The sincerest prayers are before God alone. Please consult with God before posting anything.

2) If a prayer of hope, strive to express a collective encouragement.

3) If a prayer of lament, strive to express a collective grief.

4) If a prayer of anger, refrain from criticizing specific people, parties, sects, or nations. While it may be appropriate, save these for your prayers alone before God.

5) In every prayer, do your best to include a blessing.

I will do my best to moderate accordingly. Thank you for praying for Lebanon and her people.

God,

Some rallied for the criminal they called instead a hero.

But better than a label is the sentiment it summons:

Sympathy.

In need of cash, he stormed the bank and claimed his own deposit.

Knowing he would be refused he came prepared with leverage:

Gasoline.

He doused the floor and showed his gun and threatened all surrounding.

With dollars gained he then went home. But honor, conscience led him:

Surrender.

But now the court wants money back. No copycat proceedings.

It’s right, and good, but wrong, and sad. It sums up Lebanon proper:

Desperation.

Another problem yet confronts, though only Beirut suffered.

The internet ran out of fuel. The head, who warned, then threatened:

Resignation.

A civil servant, we are told, forgot to sign a paper.

But new supplies have been obtained. Now May the expiration:

Foreboding.

Still—deals in place with guarantees are now becoming formal.

Jordan. Egypt. Syria. The promise is appealing:

Electricity.

And with the dollars spent to drive the lira appreciating,

A budget pending, cabinet to meet—might we see unexpected:

Recovery?

God, we place all in your hands. Come to the man in mercy.

Keep our data, WhatsApp calls; alternatives are mostly:

Prohibitive.

And will the power come back on? Reforms and bailout happen?

Few of us trust promised gains. Like bright lights, reason glaring:

Corruption.

You God, in all, the opposite. You’re love, you’re strength, forgiving.

Our hope: In you. Not wealth. Not sect. Alone, even friends and family:

Deceiving.

For Lebanon’s problems, enlighten those with influence and position.

But your word gives us answers true. The only expectation:

Obedience.

Amen.

To receive Lebanon Prayer by WhatsApp, please click this link to join the closed comments group.

Lebanon Prayer places before God the major events of the previous week, asking his favor for the nation living through them.

It seeks for values common to all, however differently some might apply them. It honors all who strive on her behalf, however suspect some may find them.

It offers no solutions, but desires peace, justice, and reconciliation. It favors no party, but seeks transparency, consensus, and national sovereignty.

How God sorts these out is his business. Consider joining in prayer that God will bless the people and establish his principles, from which all our approximations derive.

Sometimes prayer can generate more prayer. While mine is for general principles, you may have very specific hopes for Lebanon. You are welcome to post these here as comments, that others might pray with you as you place your desires before God.

If you wish to share your own prayer, please adhere to the following guidelines:

1) The sincerest prayers are before God alone. Please consult with God before posting anything.

2) If a prayer of hope, strive to express a collective encouragement.

3) If a prayer of lament, strive to express a collective grief.

4) If a prayer of anger, refrain from criticizing specific people, parties, sects, or nations. While it may be appropriate, save these for your prayers alone before God.

5) In every prayer, do your best to include a blessing.

I will do my best to moderate accordingly. Thank you for praying for Lebanon and her people.

God,

Cabinet will soon be back—with everyone embarrassed?

Since October it has stalled, to shelve the justice leading

Investigations in the blast. They failed (for now) removal,

And yield instead to IMF, exchange rate, and the suffering.

The budget now can be discussed, prime minister the victor.

But lingers still is his “two days” that promised soon resumption.

And president, too, played a role in pressuring the duo.

But national dialogue fell flat—his plea was seen irrelevant.

How does the union rate their strike? City shutdown helpful?

Annoyance won, or sympathy? No revolution followed.

The foreign powers maneuver still. America dropped its sanctions

To win the flow of Egypt’s gas. Good, but Syrian backtrack?

And UAE joins Al Saoud in promised French initiative—

That since its start has been ignored despite extensive effort.

God, what to do when plans dissolve? When reputation tarnished?

A king disgraced can rally still, or humbly seek redemption.

Some of old turned from the Lord. Some saw—in him—revival.

But none have fallen yet so far, though Lebanon is collapsing.

So many people wish them ill, but many still beholden.

Yet they continue, carry on. Their sect, their interest, nation.

It is a sacrifice to stay within the spotlight. Surely

There is a principle each seeks—with politics conflicting.

God remove the obstacles, and them, if they the problem.

God empower them otherwise, and lead them to solution.

Cabinet again will meet, and now can take decisions.

Give wisdom, God. The room for wrong has also now expanded.

Let godly shame descend upon all parties which deserve it.

Embarrassment can drive us to your arms in seeking cover.

Wipe our tears, God. Lift our head. Remind us of your image.

Tarnished, yes, but you restore. Trade ashes for our blessing.

Amen.

To receive Lebanon Prayer by WhatsApp, please click this link to join the closed comments group.

Lebanon Prayer places before God the major events of the previous week, asking his favor for the nation living through them.

It seeks for values common to all, however differently some might apply them. It honors all who strive on her behalf, however suspect some may find them.

It offers no solutions, but desires peace, justice, and reconciliation. It favors no party, but seeks transparency, consensus, and national sovereignty.

How God sorts these out is his business. Consider joining in prayer that God will bless the people and establish his principles, from which all our approximations derive.

Sometimes prayer can generate more prayer. While mine is for general principles, you may have very specific hopes for Lebanon. You are welcome to post these here as comments, that others might pray with you as you place your desires before God.

If you wish to share your own prayer, please adhere to the following guidelines:

1) The sincerest prayers are before God alone. Please consult with God before posting anything.

2) If a prayer of hope, strive to express a collective encouragement.

3) If a prayer of lament, strive to express a collective grief.

4) If a prayer of anger, refrain from criticizing specific people, parties, sects, or nations. While it may be appropriate, save these for your prayers alone before God.

5) In every prayer, do your best to include a blessing.

I will do my best to moderate accordingly. Thank you for praying for Lebanon and her people.

God,

A few days late, the outburst came.

Not from the top, but in-law.

The Christian-Shiite partnership, he said: No longer working.

It brought the president his post.

But what else is accomplished?

Reform the state, corruption probe? No—just sectarian interest.

Will cost us seats, and me the chair.

But principle must triumph.

Yet the alliance did not break. Just leverage? Pressure? Posturing?

Militia head in turn took aim.

He fired at the Saudis.

The king the terrorist-in-chief. A verbal up-the-ante.

All others rallied round the cause,

As each his own interprets.

Preserve relations. Resistance arms. A larger deal coming?

So God we ask what you prefer:

A smiling false consensus,

Or knuckles bared, frustration aired, with right and wrong debated?

If politics an ugly game, real issues on the table.

If politics deceitful game,

Behind closed doors the answer comes—and dressed up as solution.

Which one Lebanon, oh God?

Send to us your mercy.

Make politics an honest game. Represent the people.

In compromise, accountable.

In seeking posts, transparent.

The national above the sect, with individual freedom.

But not too much? The sect also

Reflects a true communal.

God, how is this puzzle solved? Lebanon: Conundrum.

So let each segment seek your will.

Be humble. Serve the other.

God, please bless the pure in heart. The peacemakers, your children.

Some dedicate their time to prayer.

Some enter the arena.

God, let their light shine. Kingdom come. Peace—no more explosions.

Amen.

To receive Lebanon Prayer by WhatsApp, please click this link to join the closed comments group.

Lebanon Prayer places before God the major events of the previous week, asking his favor for the nation living through them.

It seeks for values common to all, however differently some might apply them. It honors all who strive on her behalf, however suspect some may find them.

It offers no solutions, but desires peace, justice, and reconciliation. It favors no party, but seeks transparency, consensus, and national sovereignty.

How God sorts these out is his business. Consider joining in prayer that God will bless the people and establish his principles, from which all our approximations derive.

Lebanon Prayer places before God the major events of the previous week, asking his favor for the nation living through them.

It seeks for values common to all, however differently some might apply them. It honors all who strive on her behalf, however suspect some may find them.

It offers no solutions, but desires peace, justice, and reconciliation. It favors no party, but seeks transparency, consensus, and national sovereignty.

How God sorts these out is his business. Consider joining in prayer that God will bless the people and establish his principles, from which all our approximations derive.

God,

What to do when none know what?

In some ways you keep going.

Repair a pipeline. Seize more pills.

Enjoy the new year’s party.

But habits old continue too.

Contribute few solutions.

Freeze appointments. Tweet abroad.

Call comprehensive dialogue.

Surely it is needed, God.

The contents known for decades.

But less explosive than assumed,

Once intervention softened.

Escalation? Status quo?

The former had been promised.

Wisdom needed. What would help?

In the end, more talking?

Maybe, God. Decentralize.

Ta’ef said. Still waiting.

Order defense. One command.

Resistance. Army. People.

Reaction yet is muted still.

Responses mild, yet framing.

Partition feared? A UN role?

Accusing or agenda.

Within this, how best to pray?

Bless the president, trying.

Give discernment. Moral strength.

Break the deadlock, winsome.

Cabinet leader also bless.

Give compromise, consensus.

Virtues also. Bend don’t break.

Help him to muddle forward.

And speaker needs your blessing too.

With ally, many blame them.

Defend the sect. Defend the right.

Let justice come, include them.

But God it could be all are wrong.

Elections, now, are scheduled.

Replace them all. Or rearrange.

The nation needs renewal.

Your will, however, probes within.

Wants men, not just their policy.

Love them wholly. Sanctify.

Reflect in them your image.

And through them, God, or yet without

Bless Lebanon and its people.

Refugee and citizen.

Lift up, and prove your goodness.

Amen.

To receive Lebanon Prayer by WhatsApp, please click this link to join the closed comments group.

Lebanon Prayer places before God the major events of the previous week, asking his favor for the nation living through them.

It seeks for values common to all, however differently some might apply them. It honors all who strive on her behalf, however suspect some may find them.

It offers no solutions, but desires peace, justice, and reconciliation. It favors no party, but seeks transparency, consensus, and national sovereignty.

How God sorts these out is his business. Consider joining in prayer that God will bless the people and establish his principles, from which all our approximations derive.

Sometimes prayer can generate more prayer. While mine is for general principles, you may have very specific hopes for Lebanon. You are welcome to post these here as comments, that others might pray with you as you place your desires before God.

If you wish to share your own prayer, please adhere to the following guidelines:

1) The sincerest prayers are before God alone. Please consult with God before posting anything.

2) If a prayer of hope, strive to express a collective encouragement.

3) If a prayer of lament, strive to express a collective grief.

4) If a prayer of anger, refrain from criticizing specific people, parties, sects, or nations. While it may be appropriate, save these for your prayers alone before God.

5) In every prayer, do your best to include a blessing.

I will do my best to moderate accordingly. Thank you for praying for Lebanon and her people.

God,

Some say they are a den of thieves. Some say that they are rivals.

Side by side for years on end. At odds, cooperating.

They carry burdens of their sect. Principles, and interests.

They hold together Lebanon. They keep it from uniting.

For now is snubbed the president. Last year the prime minister.

Soon the speaker gets his turn. Once, anon, militia.

But God, within them, is there truth? Are some striving rightly?

Are they foiled, time again? Or take turns as the victim?

Your image rests within them all. But sin, alongside, struggles.

Bless their fellowship. Enrich. And bind them to the nation.

Or break it, God. Where lies deceit, replace the ill with honest.

Will youth exceed the gains of age? Or double-down corruption?

But yes or no, continues on the world and downward spiral.

The government will still not meet. Paralysis, inertia.

From schemes abroad, or schemes at home, the ordinary suffer.

Do they protect themselves or sect? Honor, virtue, homeland?

God, our prayers are for their good. But hope is misdirected.

Our trust can only be in you. All others simply steward.

So make them faithful, God. Proficient. Governance is service.

But make us servants of your will. Your kingdom—here—yet spiritual.

Amen.

To receive Lebanon Prayer by WhatsApp, please click this link to join the closed comments group.

Lebanon Prayer places before God the major events of the previous week, asking his favor for the nation living through them.

It seeks for values common to all, however differently some might apply them. It honors all who strive on her behalf, however suspect some may find them.

It offers no solutions, but desires peace, justice, and reconciliation. It favors no party, but seeks transparency, consensus, and national sovereignty.

How God sorts these out is his business. Consider joining in prayer that God will bless the people and establish his principles, from which all our approximations derive.

Lebanon Prayer places before God the major events of the previous week, asking his favor for the nation living through them.

It seeks for values common to all, however differently some might apply them. It honors all who strive on her behalf, however suspect some may find them.

It offers no solutions, but desires peace, justice, and reconciliation. It favors no party, but seeks transparency, consensus, and national sovereignty.

How God sorts these out is his business. Consider joining in prayer that God will bless the people and establish his principles, from which all our approximations derive.

Sometimes prayer can generate more prayer. While mine is for general principles, you may have very specific hopes for Lebanon. You are welcome to post these here as comments, that others might pray with you as you place your desires before God.

If you wish to share your own prayer, please adhere to the following guidelines:

1) The sincerest prayers are before God alone. Please consult with God before posting anything.

2) If a prayer of hope, strive to express a collective encouragement.

3) If a prayer of lament, strive to express a collective grief.

4) If a prayer of anger, refrain from criticizing specific people, parties, sects, or nations. While it may be appropriate, save these for your prayers alone before God.

5) In every prayer, do your best to include a blessing.

I will do my best to moderate accordingly. Thank you for praying for Lebanon and her people.

My apologies for failing to write prayers for Lebanon these past two weeks. I was traveling and steeped in the issues of another land of which I will soon report.

Returning a few days ago, I am not yet sufficiently reengaged to offer a prayer this week either. So instead I will post a prayer I recently encountered, with the permission of the author who calls into question the whole enterprise of praying for a nation:

I believe that calling the church to pray for Lebanon is a beautiful act of faith that contains potential for dangerous theological assumptions. I graciously ask you to take a theological walk with me as I seek to unpack some dangers of the zeal to pray for Lebanon.

Please click here if you would like to read his thoughts further. But in the meanwhile, consider his prayer of conclusion, and pray along if you agree.

Let us pray for forgiveness. We have been terrible stewards of this beautiful piece of God’s creation.

Let us pray for justice and mercy. May God intervene to punish the wicked and lift the oppressed.

Let us pray for strength to live faithfully in these turbulent times. Life is tough. The future is frightening. May God remind us that whether we live or die, we do so for Him and His glory.

Let us pray for strength to carry the cross. May we be ready to lose all things in acts of love and mercy for all those around us.

Let us pray to know God’s will. Even as I write these words the Lord is bringing goodness out of this evil. May He help us to see with His eyes and be His hands to the tired people of this land.

The Lord is good. Come and taste that He is good. Blessed are the people who rely on Him.

Amen.

To receive Lebanon Prayer by WhatsApp, please click this link to join the closed comments group.

Lebanon Prayer places before God the major events of the previous week, asking his favor for the nation living through them.

It seeks for values common to all, however differently some might apply them. It honors all who strive on her behalf, however suspect some may find them.

It offers no solutions, but desires peace, justice, and reconciliation. It favors no party, but seeks transparency, consensus, and national sovereignty.

How God sorts these out is his business. Consider joining in prayer that God will bless the people and establish his principles, from which all our approximations derive.

Lebanon Prayer places before God the major events of the previous week, asking his favor for the nation living through them.

It seeks for values common to all, however differently some might apply them. It honors all who strive on her behalf, however suspect some may find them.

It offers no solutions, but desires peace, justice, and reconciliation. It favors no party, but seeks transparency, consensus, and national sovereignty.

How God sorts these out is his business. Consider joining in prayer that God will bless the people and establish his principles, from which all our approximations derive.

Sometimes prayer can generate more prayer. While mine is for general principles, you may have very specific hopes for Lebanon. You are welcome to post these here as comments, that others might pray with you as you place your desires before God.

If you wish to share your own prayer, please adhere to the following guidelines:

1) The sincerest prayers are before God alone. Please consult with God before posting anything.

2) If a prayer of hope, strive to express a collective encouragement.

3) If a prayer of lament, strive to express a collective grief.

4) If a prayer of anger, refrain from criticizing specific people, parties, sects, or nations. While it may be appropriate, save these for your prayers alone before God.

5) In every prayer, do your best to include a blessing.

I will do my best to moderate accordingly. Thank you for praying for Lebanon and her people.

God,

It isn’t fair. It may be just. But why must people suffer?

Just words against a foreign war. Now farmers lose their exports.

The game show host turned minister turned on his former patron.

Now his employer up and leaves. Investment ends, employment.

God, you put him in his place. Will resignation please you?

Or does he matter not at all? A piece to play and discard.

Sure, Saudi has interests to guard. Iran, and its militia

Grow stronger outside bounds of state. And now within, official?

Prime minister and president plead: We want our good relations.

But do they mean another loan? The nation is in crisis.

What do you make of all these games? Are they worth the praying?

Are the rules of man or God? They are presiding system.

So can we cheat if meaning good? Can one file press another?

Can justice at the port be tied to justice in Tayyouneh?

Do prayers have influence in how you guide and shape our leaders?

Can widows’ mites or widows’ tears—through you—determine policy?

God, bless the ones who wash their hands, who focus efforts elsewhere.

They help the poor, they preach the word, they love and serve their neighbor.

But some you put in government. Perhaps from greed, ascending.

Every word we speak, you judge. Each word they speak seems double.

Bless the man who sparked this row. Bless the men around him.

Somehow your will in outsized share comes from their flawed decisions.

So God, we turn our prayers toward them: Turn their hearts toward goodness.

For the sake of Lebanon: Give courage, peace, and justice.

Amen.

To receive Lebanon Prayer by WhatsApp, please click this link to join the closed comments group.

Lebanon Prayer places before God the major events of the previous week, asking his favor for the nation living through them.

It seeks for values common to all, however differently some might apply them. It honors all who strive on her behalf, however suspect some may find them.

It offers no solutions, but desires peace, justice, and reconciliation. It favors no party, but seeks transparency, consensus, and national sovereignty.

How God sorts these out is his business. Consider joining in prayer that God will bless the people and establish his principles, from which all our approximations derive.

Lebanon Prayer places before God the major events of the previous week, asking his favor for the nation living through them.

It seeks for values common to all, however differently some might apply them. It honors all who strive on her behalf, however suspect some may find them.

It offers no solutions, but desires peace, justice, and reconciliation. It favors no party, but seeks transparency, consensus, and national sovereignty.

How God sorts these out is his business. Consider joining in prayer that God will bless the people and establish his principles, from which all our approximations derive.

Sometimes prayer can generate more prayer. While mine is for general principles, you may have very specific hopes for Lebanon. You are welcome to post these here as comments, that others might pray with you as you place your desires before God.

If you wish to share your own prayer, please adhere to the following guidelines:

1) The sincerest prayers are before God alone. Please consult with God before posting anything.

2) If a prayer of hope, strive to express a collective encouragement.

3) If a prayer of lament, strive to express a collective grief.

4) If a prayer of anger, refrain from criticizing specific people, parties, sects, or nations. While it may be appropriate, save these for your prayers alone before God.

5) In every prayer, do your best to include a blessing.

I will do my best to moderate accordingly. Thank you for praying for Lebanon and her people.

God,

“Ten thousand fall at your right hand,” but what of ten-fold increase?

At first fell only seven.

But only some deployed that day. The battle-tested, ready.

So said the sayyid calling out the Christians killing Shiites—

Who say of themselves ‘forces.’

“But no, you raided our side first. The people self-defended.”

“You think we threaten civil war? Our fighters number zero.”

(They once had strong militia.)

But many doubt if this is true. Still, confrontation? Never.

But could it be? The Christians fight. They hold their presence sacred.

All elsewhere, subjugated.

“Sit still—polite,” the sayyid said. Will he with arms compel it?

For now the judge keeps up his probe. Demanded now: Recusal.

“Step down, for peace of nation.”

But none will answer anyway. He works while kept from working.

God, where does your wisdom lie? The principles in tension.

Self-defense. Love enemy.

Put burning coals upon his head? Or smash his teeth entire?

But what if the critique is true? Investigation biased.

How best combat a witch hunt?

Securing justice comes from strength. The state, all say, is feeble.

God, secure the peacemakers. God, the law make righteous—

With government enforcement.

God, remove the all-corrupt. God, reform the semi-.

God, our trust must be in you. We all, depressed, surrender.

To you, and not the darkness.

We raise our hands but no white flag. Unable—help us worship.

Amen.

To receive Lebanon Prayer by WhatsApp, please click this link to join the closed comments group.

Lebanon Prayer places before God the major events of the previous week, asking his favor for the nation living through them.

It seeks for values common to all, however differently some might apply them. It honors all who strive on her behalf, however suspect some may find them.

It offers no solutions, but desires peace, justice, and reconciliation. It favors no party, but seeks transparency, consensus, and national sovereignty.

How God sorts these out is his business. Consider joining in prayer that God will bless the people and establish his principles, from which all our approximations derive.

Lebanon Prayer places before God the major events of the previous week, asking his favor for the nation living through them.

It seeks for values common to all, however differently some might apply them. It honors all who strive on her behalf, however suspect some may find them.

It offers no solutions, but desires peace, justice, and reconciliation. It favors no party, but seeks transparency, consensus, and national sovereignty.

How God sorts these out is his business. Consider joining in prayer that God will bless the people and establish his principles, from which all our approximations derive.

Sometimes prayer can generate more prayer. While mine is for general principles, you may have very specific hopes for Lebanon. You are welcome to post these here as comments, that others might pray with you as you place your desires before God.

If you wish to share your own prayer, please adhere to the following guidelines:

1) The sincerest prayers are before God alone. Please consult with God before posting anything.

2) If a prayer of hope, strive to express a collective encouragement.

3) If a prayer of lament, strive to express a collective grief.

4) If a prayer of anger, refrain from criticizing specific people, parties, sects, or nations. While it may be appropriate, save these for your prayers alone before God.

5) In every prayer, do your best to include a blessing.

I will do my best to moderate accordingly. Thank you for praying for Lebanon and her people.

God,

There is desperation. A man from fuel has died.

To siphon gas from tank to tank he erred and swallowed much.

But what if he just waited? This week the lines are gone.

The price too high for most to have, at least the petrol flows.

But this belies the problem. He lived from hand to mouth.

How can one wait and thus not eat while “process” takes its time?

Success depends on order. And order on a plan.

Perhaps it comes together, slowly, linking state to state.

From Jordan to Damascus: An expedited hope.

The electricity will come, and pipelines getting fixed.

An IMF team forming.  Soon audit central bank.

Then experts backed by parties can perhaps bailout secure.

For time is of the essence. A year-plus gone to waste.

Was it all deliberate, casting doubt on all work now?

The port probe is suspended. And angry families fume.

A plan and process—incomplete—if justice brushed aside.

Transparency is needed. Accountability.

God, let the order forming now reflect the right and good.

Do they all just dawdle? Or is resolve sincere?

God, our prayers are with them—and above them, seeking more.

Empower them in service. Secure funds with reform.

The leader is essential, but the system sets the rules.

Replace them if found faulty. Repentance does the same.

It’s not the man, but character, that counts in your design.

But help it happen quickly. And deeply, to be real.

God, how Lebanon needs your help. Transform us. Save us. Heal.

Amen.

To receive Lebanon Prayer by WhatsApp, please click this link to join the closed comments group.

Lebanon Prayer places before God the major events of the previous week, asking his favor for the nation living through them.

It seeks for values common to all, however differently some might apply them. It honors all who strive on her behalf, however suspect some may find them.

It offers no solutions, but desires peace, justice, and reconciliation. It favors no party, but seeks transparency, consensus, and national sovereignty.

How God sorts these out is his business. Consider joining in prayer that God will bless the people and establish his principles, from which all our approximations derive.

Lebanon Prayer places before God the major events of the previous week, asking his favor for the nation living through them.

It seeks for values common to all, however differently some might apply them. It honors all who strive on her behalf, however suspect some may find them.

It offers no solutions, but desires peace, justice, and reconciliation. It favors no party, but seeks transparency, consensus, and national sovereignty.

How God sorts these out is his business. Consider joining in prayer that God will bless the people and establish his principles, from which all our approximations derive.

Sometimes prayer can generate more prayer. While mine is for general principles, you may have very specific hopes for Lebanon. You are welcome to post these here as comments, that others might pray with you as you place your desires before God.

If you wish to share your own prayer, please adhere to the following guidelines:

1) The sincerest prayers are before God alone. Please consult with God before posting anything.

2) If a prayer of hope, strive to express a collective encouragement.

3) If a prayer of lament, strive to express a collective grief.

4) If a prayer of anger, refrain from criticizing specific people, parties, sects, or nations. While it may be appropriate, save these for your prayers alone before God.

5) In every prayer, do your best to include a blessing.

I will do my best to moderate accordingly. Thank you for praying for Lebanon and her people.

God,

Within the lull, bless Lebanon.

Waiting for subsequent steps.

Will new leadership deliver?

What crisis will come next?

France promised to stand with the nation.

The prime minister promised reforms.

Officials have threatened the port probe.

New nitrates have threatened the peace.

Skilled resources are leaving.

While donated fuel arrives.

Is the expat disenfranchised,

With vote rescheduled March?

Only you, God, see clearly the future.

Only you, God, know what must take place.

 Join somehow your mercy and justice.

Uproot, plant again, harvest well.

Stability you do not promise.

The lukewarm you threaten to spit.

Make cold in godly mourning.

Make hot for hungered good.

Our incomes destroyed by the world’s worst inflation.

Our dignity crushed as we wait for our gas.

God, solve these problems of finance and transport.

Expose every criminal who manipulates well.

Keep us secure in your favor.

Humiliate not your beloved.

But humble us truly. Our nation

Might then rise again. May it be.

Amen.

To receive Lebanon Prayer by WhatsApp, please click this link to join the closed comments group.

Lebanon Prayer places before God the major events of the previous week, asking his favor for the nation living through them.

It seeks for values common to all, however differently some might apply them. It honors all who strive on her behalf, however suspect some may find them.

It offers no solutions, but desires peace, justice, and reconciliation. It favors no party, but seeks transparency, consensus, and national sovereignty.

How God sorts these out is his business. Consider joining in prayer that God will bless the people and establish his principles, from which all our approximations derive.

Lebanon Prayer places before God the major events of the previous week, asking his favor for the nation living through them.

It seeks for values common to all, however differently some might apply them. It honors all who strive on her behalf, however suspect some may find them.

It offers no solutions, but desires peace, justice, and reconciliation. It favors no party, but seeks transparency, consensus, and national sovereignty.

How God sorts these out is his business. Consider joining in prayer that God will bless the people and establish his principles, from which all our approximations derive.

Sometimes prayer can generate more prayer. While mine is for general principles, you may have very specific hopes for Lebanon. You are welcome to post these here as comments, that others might pray with you as you place your desires before God.

If you wish to share your own prayer, please adhere to the following guidelines:

1) The sincerest prayers are before God alone. Please consult with God before posting anything.

2) If a prayer of hope, strive to express a collective encouragement.

3) If a prayer of lament, strive to express a collective grief.

4) If a prayer of anger, refrain from criticizing specific people, parties, sects, or nations. While it may be appropriate, save these for your prayers alone before God.

5) In every prayer, do your best to include a blessing.

I will do my best to moderate accordingly. Thank you for praying for Lebanon and her people.

God,

He had to say something, he’s the person in charge.

He thus shrugged his shoulders and said that he’s sad.

The fuel violates sovereignty, it came from Iran.

But no sanctions please as we didn’t arrange.

Could he have done something? At the border refuse?

But then suffer the optics with cars in long lines?

Adding three days of gasoline, it claims to break siege.

At least it is something as few else will help.

He then raised the prices; the subsidy shrinks.

But did he even do it or someone somewhere?

A policy statement, the details vague.

Tough issues shelved until when? We don’t know.

An IMF loan bid. Two power plants or three?

A year of reforms, the strong president vows.

The central bank audit, it then will extend

To all other ministries—corruption rots.

The country moves forward, the steps taken are good.

But all the same measures discussed long ago.

While subpoenaed ministers failed to arrive

At their court summoned hearings. Illegal, they say.

God, thank you for government—a responsible start.

Now give them the courage to govern in fact.

Take decisions unpopular—if they are right.

And find the consensus to drive through reforms.

Some say they’re all criminals, and maybe some are.

God, we want justice to jolt Lebanon.

But with none of us angels, we all must repent.

Let me list my own among sins of this land.

We have to pray something, what else can we do?

We’re tired and we’re anguished. But you’ve put us in charge.

You’ve given authority, it came from your son.

Now help us to use it—the heavens arrange.

We fight against darkness, in the spiritual realm.

We rebuke the spirits of greed, fraud, and lies.

They surround our leaders, who thus need our prayers.

God, heal our country, drive us to our knees.

Amen.

To receive Lebanon Prayer by WhatsApp, please click this link to join the closed comments group.

Lebanon Prayer places before God the major events of the previous week, asking his favor for the nation living through them.

It seeks for values common to all, however differently some might apply them. It honors all who strive on her behalf, however suspect some may find them.

It offers no solutions, but desires peace, justice, and reconciliation. It favors no party, but seeks transparency, consensus, and national sovereignty.

How God sorts these out is his business. Consider joining in prayer that God will bless the people and establish his principles, from which all our approximations derive.

Lebanon Prayer places before God the major events of the previous week, asking his favor for the nation living through them.

It seeks for values common to all, however differently some might apply them. It honors all who strive on her behalf, however suspect some may find them.

It offers no solutions, but desires peace, justice, and reconciliation. It favors no party, but seeks transparency, consensus, and national sovereignty.

How God sorts these out is his business. Consider joining in prayer that God will bless the people and establish his principles, from which all our approximations derive.

Sometimes prayer can generate more prayer. While mine is for general principles, you may have very specific hopes for Lebanon. You are welcome to post these here as comments, that others might pray with you as you place your desires before God.

If you wish to share your own prayer, please adhere to the following guidelines:

1) The sincerest prayers are before God alone. Please consult with God before posting anything.

2) If a prayer of hope, strive to express a collective encouragement.

3) If a prayer of lament, strive to express a collective grief.

4) If a prayer of anger, refrain from criticizing specific people, parties, sects, or nations. While it may be appropriate, save these for your prayers alone before God.

5) In every prayer, do your best to include a blessing.

I will do my best to moderate accordingly. Thank you for praying for Lebanon and her people.

God,

The prayer is simple: Help the government to work.

Whatever broke the impasse now decisions can be made.

So many still are skeptical.

The problems still so large.

But hope must come from somewhere while the people wait and see.

God, we ask their blessing: Discernment, wisdom, strength.

Some are hailed as capable though party links are clear.

No politics in cabinet,

Said its head. With tears

He pledged his utmost effort for the mothers, children, poor.

God, use well his millions. And too the widow’s mite.

Talents spent on your behalf can reap a hundredfold.

Many have been hoarding.

But many more have shared.

Now bless these hidden helpers who keep Lebanon afloat.

God, we seek your rescue. And justice to protect

The least of these from most of them whose welfare they devoured.

True, not all are guilty.

But each one blames the rest.

Accountability must reign if Lebanon is to heal.

God, bring down the prideful. The humble, elevate.

May this long-awaited government pursue your holy will.

Reforms must be forthcoming.

Each sect must serve the whole.

You have formed this cabinet; to fix things, or to judge?

God, we give them to you. Our hope, for you reserved.

Forgive their sins and cleanse their hearts so that their plans succeed.

My conscience, too, is guilty.

I share my nation’s faults.

Lift us up out of this pit—redeem me, them, and all.

Amen.

To receive Lebanon Prayer by WhatsApp, please click this link to join the closed comments group.

Lebanon Prayer places before God the major events of the previous week, asking his favor for the nation living through them.

It seeks for values common to all, however differently some might apply them. It honors all who strive on her behalf, however suspect some may find them.

It offers no solutions, but desires peace, justice, and reconciliation. It favors no party, but seeks transparency, consensus, and national sovereignty.

How God sorts these out is his business. Consider joining in prayer that God will bless the people and establish his principles, from which all our approximations derive.

Lebanon Prayer places before God the major events of the previous week, asking his favor for the nation living through them.

It seeks for values common to all, however differently some might apply them. It honors all who strive on her behalf, however suspect some may find them.

It offers no solutions, but desires peace, justice, and reconciliation. It favors no party, but seeks transparency, consensus, and national sovereignty.

How God sorts these out is his business. Consider joining in prayer that God will bless the people and establish his principles, from which all our approximations derive.

Sometimes prayer can generate more prayer. While mine is for general principles, you may have very specific hopes for Lebanon. You are welcome to post these here as comments, that others might pray with you as you place your desires before God.

If you wish to share your own prayer, please adhere to the following guidelines:

1) The sincerest prayers are before God alone. Please consult with God before posting anything.

2) If a prayer of hope, strive to express a collective encouragement.

3) If a prayer of lament, strive to express a collective grief.

4) If a prayer of anger, refrain from criticizing specific people, parties, sects, or nations. While it may be appropriate, save these for your prayers alone before God.

5) In every prayer, do your best to include a blessing.

I will do my best to moderate accordingly. Thank you for praying for Lebanon and her people.

God,

No progress still on cabinet.

Not smiling face, not bearded one.

No progress still on Beirut port.

The probe on hold, as leaders balk.

But who can attend to these files of note—

Essentials of governance, justice, for all—

While sitting in gas lines or home in the dark?

Or worse yet a victim of crime on the rise.

Gunshots at stations.

Fuel tankers seized.

Gangs mark their area.

Eight incidents a day.

God, how long can this go on?

October, if the subsidies lift?

But then the price just bankrupts more.

The middle class is pummeled whole.

Worse off are the very poor

Whose numbers only ever rise.

Where is the promised ration card?

Was nearly ready, weeks ago.

At least the dollar help will come,

Though that took months to make agree.

But who will get it, when, and how?

No cabinet, no justice. Why?

God, you know.

And God, you cry.

Is it a weeping with shoulders bent inward?

Collapsed in despair and unable to act?

What can you do when the men you appointed

Instead rob the vineyard and beat those you send?

Or is your response a loud outcry of anger?

Stirred to your core you will rise up and raze

Every last vestige of Lebanon. Death.

But one last ditch effort:

Send first your son.

Who will it be, God?

They killed the son—it brought salvation.

And then your wrath was rightly poured

Only on those who truly deserved it

While others found refuge confessing their sin.

But who among all Lebanon’s faithful children

Might come forward to lead something new, something true?

Perhaps to be beaten.

Perhaps to succeed.

But call them forth, God.

Save the vineyard.

Renew.

Amen.

To receive Lebanon Prayer by WhatsApp, please click this link to join the closed comments group.

Lebanon Prayer places before God the major events of the previous week, asking his favor for the nation living through them.

It seeks for values common to all, however differently some might apply them. It honors all who strive on her behalf, however suspect some may find them.

It offers no solutions, but desires peace, justice, and reconciliation. It favors no party, but seeks transparency, consensus, and national sovereignty.

How God sorts these out is his business. Consider joining in prayer that God will bless the people and establish his principles, from which all our approximations derive.

Lebanon Prayer places before God the major events of the previous week, asking his favor for the nation living through them.

It seeks for values common to all, however differently some might apply them. It honors all who strive on her behalf, however suspect some may find them.

It offers no solutions, but desires peace, justice, and reconciliation. It favors no party, but seeks transparency, consensus, and national sovereignty.

How God sorts these out is his business. Consider joining in prayer that God will bless the people and establish his principles, from which all our approximations derive.

Sometimes prayer can generate more prayer. While mine is for general principles, you may have very specific hopes for Lebanon. You are welcome to post these here as comments, that others might pray with you as you place your desires before God.

If you wish to share your own prayer, please adhere to the following guidelines:

1) The sincerest prayers are before God alone. Please consult with God before posting anything.

2) If a prayer of hope, strive to express a collective encouragement.

3) If a prayer of lament, strive to express a collective grief.

4) If a prayer of anger, refrain from criticizing specific people, parties, sects, or nations. While it may be appropriate, save these for your prayers alone before God.

5) In every prayer, do your best to include a blessing.

I will do my best to moderate accordingly. Thank you for praying for Lebanon and her people.