Father, we ask that you help us understand your word through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and open our hearts and minds so that we may incorporate your word and will into our lives for your glory. Please give us peace and comfort in these difficult times and help us cling to you through your word and the presence of the holy spirit. We know you are still in control and will use these difficult times for your good. Forgive us if we interpret your silence as a lack of your love. We know you will answer if we only stay faithful. In Jesus’ name…

– Amen

“I have obeyed my Father’s commands, and I remain in his love. In the same way, if you obey my commands, you will remain in my love. I have told you these things so that you can have the same joy I have and so that your joy will be the fullest possible joy” (John 15:10-11)

“I will show you what everyone is like who comes to me and hears my words and obeys. That person is like a man building a house who dug deep and laid the foundation on rock. When the floods came, the water tried to wash the house away, but it could not shake it, because the house was built well” (Luke 6:47-48)

“We can be sure that we know God if we obey his commands. Anyone who says, “I know God” but does not obey God’s commands is a liar, and the truth is not in that person. But if someone obeys God’s teaching, then in that person God’s love has truly reached its goal” (1 John 2:3-5)