So, there have been many tragic, unfortunate, violent events that have recently happened in my beautiful hometown over the last few years. I personally believe that one of the reasons everyone is in an uproar is because we aren't really used to that. Of course, people have died but they have mainly been older adults. Now, the age group that is fading away quickly is between 15-35! From various fights & a stabbing due to bullying at my old high school- to my neighborhood/surrounding areas being robbed, & innocent bystanders being shot, the community is in need of prayer, renewal, & transformation. Many people were on facebook giving their opinions of the event last night, some getting angry, upset, and more over two young men that shot one another. I know one died, not sure if the other lived. Regardless, it took a toll on us all I believe. People have said what we "should" do as a community, and I truly believe that things are going to begin to change, but its going to take a collective effort & obedience to God. And there were even some people that seemed "angry" that others were speaking their minds. Even I gave my $.02 about the issue (and I don't do that very often, lol) because I felt as if people were just yippidy yapping away & not really thinking about the message they were trying to convey. Say what you will, but unless you are part of the solution, you're apart of the problem! Its so easy to get caught up and wrapped up in others opinions that we miss the main point. I too should have just talked less & prayed more at that time, so forgive me God! At the end of the day, to rectifiy this problem both here & in communities everywhere, prayer & obedience is KEY!
I personally would like to get involved in one way or another with doing something so the violence will at least decrease in my community, but I don't want to bust a move until GOD SAYS SO! Its so easy to pop off at the mouth about what needs to be done, who needs to do it, how it needs to be done...etc. etc. etc., but if God didn't say do it like that or like this, then it shouldn't be done! So to kick things off, I'm going to be participating in a cooperate fast that one of my beautiful sisters in Christ started via facebook, from 12 noon- 6 p.m. today for my community. I truly believe that God is changing some things around right now as I type this! He knows exactly what he's doing and we just need to hear what he's trying to say. So if you are reading this post, I just ask that you stop and take a minute to pray for all of our communities. Pray that our youth & adults be protected from the enemy and that peace will reign supreme. God bless. Thank you!
Please recite this prayer if you desire:
Dear Heavenly Father, we need you right now more than ever. The violence, the crime, the bullying, the rapes, the robberies, the hate, the depression, the anger and more have become too much to fathom. The enemy wants to take us all out one by one and he's yet seeking whom he can devour next. But we know that as long as you are acknowledged first, then all will be well. Forgive us for sitting back in good health and not doing a thing to help bring peace in our homes and communities. Help us to become actively involved by doing something, even if its just setting aside 5 minutes out of our day to pray for more than just ourselves. Protect us from the bullets, the addictions, the violence, the gangs, accidents, and more that would have us to leave prematurely. Help us to be obedient to your Word and your will father God. We need your peace, your spirit, your comfort, your deliverance, your forgiveness, and your love to shower down on us so that we may take the steps needed towards solutions. Be with us today, tomorrow, and forevermore. We love you father and praise your holy name! Things will change for the good. AMEN.
This post hit close to home for me. My husband and I now live in Charlotte, NC. But we're originally from Flint, MI. If you're familiar with Flint, it's often high on the murder rate list, even being #1. Our hometown is also plagued with drugs, poverty, and violence. I'm constantly reminded of 2 Chronicles 7:14 "if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land."
ReplyDeleteI will keep your city and community in my prayers.
Nikell, you are so sweeeeeeet! Thanks for standing in the gap. That is one of the scriptures I've been seeing and reading all day long, so I know it is confirmation! God is so good, and I know that things will turn around to work out for all of our good! God bless you sis!
ReplyDelete**By the way, please send me your mailing address so I can ship your fab earrings to you! sheninabrown@yahoo.com** THANKS AGAIN!