Thoughts for the Day

The Lord answer you in the day of trouble!
The name of the God of Jacob protect you!
May he send you help from the sanctuary,
and give you support from Zion.
May he remember all your offerings,
and regard with favour your burnt sacrifices.

May he grant you your heart's desire,
and fulfil all your plans.
May we shout for joy over your victory,
and in the name of our God set up our banners.
May the Lord fulfil all your petitions.

(Church in Wales Lectionary, New Revised Standard Version)

Thoughts

Psalm 20 is attributed to King David who appears to be praying on behalf of all his people, probably before a battle. It is a memorable psalm because of its awareness that life-and-death issues are about to be faced. Jesus would have known these words intimately, and as Christians we can also imagine that this was a psalm in his mind as he faced his death and the great battle against sin, death, and the power of evil.

It might also be seen as a prayer from a priest to their congregation (or the extended congregation of 'Thoughts for the Day'), or of a congregation for their minister. Perhaps we could also start a habit of saying this prayer daily for any in trouble?

To make it simple we could say:

'(Name of person or country)
May the Lord answer you in the day of trouble,
and fulfil all your petitions. Amen'.

Hundreds of people praying consistently for those around them, and for world issues will have a big effect.

Heavenly Father,
we remember today all those in trouble,
all who have no hope,
and all who need our prayers.
We ask You to hear our prayer,
and fulfil their petitions
as is best for them,
Amen.