Why bother?

• Simple logic. If God doesn't exist, there's no point in praying. But if he does, or if there's a possibility, then why not try?
• Many people believe God exists, that he is good, and that he cares deeply about us.
• Those involved in a crisis have shared how prayer helped in terrible circumstances (*see below for stories).
• Others have said that praying removed their fears; even fear of death.

How to pray in a crisis

An album of songs was written a few thousand years ago. It includes songs and prayers written in response to emergencies, such as personal tragedy, national tragedy, illness and death. The album is in the Bible and is called the book of Psalms.

Some of the songs use a particular pattern that shows us how to pray in a crisis:

1. First of all, imagine God (or try to). In the Psalms, the writers' compared God to something they could see – and it wasn't an old man with a beard. He was seen as many things; including a lion, a mountain, and a loving mother.  How do you picture strength, safety or security? Maybe a firefighter's arms, a loving embrace, a cosy home on a windy day, or a lifebelt in deep waters.
2. Feel it. Don't hide the emotion you are feeling: sadness, shock, grief or anger. Talk to God and tell him about it - it's okay to be angry and to question.
3. Believe in love. Even though this incident might leave you asking - where are you God? - as you pray, choose to believe that God is good, and that he wants to help those involved.
4. Name names. If someone has caused the distress, express your anger at their actions, and ask God to bring justice, asking that you'd be able to leave that burden in his hands.
5. Ask for God's help. Be specific; name the places or people who need help – praying for those involved to know that God is with them.
6. Keep the faith. Even though it might be difficult – finish the prayer by stating that you trust that God will intervene and bring light into these dark times.

Or you could try praying this:

God, I pray for ...
that they/he/she
would know your loving arms
around them at this time,
and that you would bring them
your peace and comfort.
It's hard for me to understand
what you can do in this situation,
but I'm trusting that you are powerful,
and that you are always with those
who call out to you in distress.

Amen.

If you want to know more about prayer: www.trypraying.co.uk

*Stories

Many amazing stories were recorded after 9/11. Read how prayer helped Stanley Praimnath: http://blog.godreports.com/2011/09/911-remembrance-only-known-survivor-from-trade-center-impact-zone-pays-tribute-to-god%E2%80%99s-grace/

Another survivor prayed; and sensed that whether he lived or not - everything would be alright: http://www.al.com/living/index.ssf/2012/09/9-11_world_trade_center_surviv.html

Sujo John called out to Jesus with what he thought was his last breath: http://www.cbn.com/cbnnews/us/2009/september/911-survivor-shares-survival-story/

More stories (videos): http://www.trypraying.co.uk/stories/

Source:  Trypraying