Dear Friends,
I am writing to you with great compassion and concern for the thousands of families affected by the recent natural disaster, which has forever changed the lives of thousands of families in the Houston, TX area and beyond.
At the time of this letter, at least 23 lives have been claimed by Hurricane Harvey, thousands have been displaced, many are homeless and many are stranded by the flood waters.
I want to write to all a word or encouragement and comfort. I know that this tragic event has long range implications and is “hitting home” for many of you. Many of you all may have family and friends in the region and are directly affected by it, while others may be affected on a simple “humanity” level. This is one of the most destructive events in US history.
Here is a scripture passage that God laid on my heart to share…
God is our refuge and strength,
A very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear,
Even though the earth be removed,
And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;
Though its waters roar and be troubled,
Though the mountains shake with its swelling. Selah
– Psalm 46:1-3
…
Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth!
– Psalm 46:10
I want to encourage you all to remember that God is still in control. We can rest in the fact that we can “Be still, and know that He is God!” (Psalm 46:10) I want to admonish you to “be still” in His grace, but not in your works. God is our COMFORTER, but He does not want us to be “comfortable” in times when many are in such desperate need. I am asking you all to keep the city of Houston and all those affected by this disaster in your prayers. Here is a list of items you can include in your prayers.
- Pray for refuge for the displaced
- Pray for health and comfort
- Pray for peace and safety
- Pray for provision; natural and supernatural
- Pray against the enemy
- Pray for togetherness and unity
- Pray for discernment and wisdom
- Pray for safe traveling grace and mercy
- Pray for the rebuilding and restoration
- Pray for the troubles still to come
- Pray for leadership and guidance
- Pray for rescue workers and law enforcement
- Pray for providers and donors
- Pray for churches in the area, their pastor, their leaders, their people
- Pray that the Gospel of Jesus Christ is preached, heard and responded to!
Our church is responding!
On last night, Wednesday, August 30, 2017, we held a Night of Prayer for Houston in lieu of our normal Bible Study. We also made a donation to God’s Pit Crew (In partnership with KSGN Radio 89.7), an organization that puts “feet on the ground” with Blessing Buckets filled with necessities and Bibles. I want to encourage you to join in. Please prayerfully consider giving the best gift you can to a well-vetted organization such as God’s Pit Crew, the Red Cross or the Salvation Army.
Friends, we are blessed to be a blessing! I know that you all will rise up and do your part. God bless!
Always interceding,
Pastor Chuck
