Preparation!!!

Well, here in the heart of the Gulf Coast area preparation is in full force anticipating the devastation that Hurricane Ike can bring. Mandatory evacuations have been made for certain areas. Thankfully, I'm not in one of those areas.

These are the times that should awaken us to the need to be prepared in all areas of life. We never know the challenges life will bring on any given day. Moreover, these are times in which we should be spiritually prepared to handle natural occurrences such as hurricane preparedness. In essence how we prepare spiritually should reflect our responses and reactions to life's daily challenges. Does that mean we ignore mandatory evacuations? No. Does it mean we shouldn't take the necessary steps such as boarding up windows, etc.? No. It means we respond wisely, doing what is necessary, and what we can to prepare for a hurricane, but ultimately, we must trust in the sovereignty and power of the God of the Universe to intervene. Therefore, we pray accordingly.

Being spiritually prepared simple means living a lifestyle based on biblical principles, which includes a constant, and consistent prayer life. Spiritual preparations strengthens your faith in troublesome, uncertain, and frustrating times like now. Spiritual preparedness keeps you from panicking when storms are raging and headed in your directions. This is the time to trust in the mercy, grace and faithfulness of the God we serve to protect us. So I pray:

Heavenly Father,

Thank you for your all-powerfulness, all-knowing, and omnipresence. I come boldly to your throne in the name of Jesus to ask for grace and mercy during this time of preparation for Hurricane Ike. Father, I trust you now as in times past. I ask for your arm of protection, provision and peace for every individual that will be impact by this storm. I recall in your Word (Luke 8:22) how you spoke to the winds and waves and they obeyed your command; therefore, I hope and trust in the power of your word even now to speak "peace be still" to the storm in our path today.

I pray that the hurricane's power decrease from current category size. I pray that the principalities and powers of the air be silenced and interference cease by the power of the Holy Spirit of God. I believe your word according to James 5:17, that just as Elijah prayed and caused atmospheric changes I can do also. Therefore, I pray for the calm of that the atmospheric pressures and the winds decrease causing Ike to lose strength before landfall along the Gulf Coast, and lessen devastation, loss of life and injuries. I pray for all those who are evacuating. I pray for their safety. I pray that even during these times, many would experience your goodness, mercy and faithfulness in a new way, and as result turn to you with their whole heart. I thank you, Father, that your kingdom will come and that your will be done in earth as it is heaven. I pray for your peace, your power and your purpose in all things. I give you praise, honor and glory. I trust in your protection and your Blood that covers all who believe by faith in its power. Even in this, Father, I pray that for your name sakes, let your miraculous intervention bring glory to you. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.