Following the European Union referendum result and the uncertainty and division that has followed, Premier Christian Radio feel it is crucial that Christians intercede in prayer at this time. They have put out a call to prayer for our nation, saying, ‘Together we'll be praying every day at midday for 5 days from 1 August. Taking part could not be simpler. All you have to do is text PRAY to 70700 and you will get sent the prayers by text message. Wherever you are and whatever you are doing you will be able to join this wave of prayer which will also be reflected on Premier Christian Radio and Premier Praise.’

Following the World Prayer Assembly held in Jakarta in 2012, the leaders of the International Prayer Council felt that a NEW WAVE of prayer and missions movements is coming and is now here - for the youth, by the youth - hence the inception of gathering this generation for a World Youth Prayer Assembly, called UPRISING (United Prayer Rising). This week ordinary people from every nation have been extraordinarily impacting our world. (Acts 17:6) They gathered because they believe their prayers matter and are willing to fight and make a sacrifice together, seeking the face of God to bring justice and peace among the nations. (1 Peter 4: 7-8, Joel 2:15, Joel 3:9-10, Psalm 24:6, Isaiah 2:2-4). Old and young are honouring each other to bring healing between generations and are praying to set a standard for their own generation. (Malachi 4:5-6,) See also: http://www.worldprayer.org.uk/ipc-wypa-2016/item/7224-uprising-2016

In a recent 24/7 update from the University of Liverpool, they reported, EVERY DAY THERE WERE PEOPLE SAYING, ‘I WISH MY HOUR HADN’T GONE BY SO FAST!’ The organisers said, ‘We wanted to create a space where people could be themselves and meet with a God who meets them where they are. So, over our Spring semester we ran a Prayer Room. We invited students from across the city to come as they were. Shaking off our preconceptions of prayer, we encouraged everyone to paint, draw, sing, dance, laugh or cry - whatever helped them to connect with their Creator. Many discovered that prayer is more than they ever thought; it helped them to discover new ways to pray. Students prayed on their own and in groups, for their campuses, the city and the world. Over three days a blank wall of paper was filled with visions of love, pouring out through the city of Liverpool - the city which birthed the phrase, ‘All you need is love’.

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