A Prayer for Warriors

“Then do what is good, and you will receive his approval, for he is God's servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword in vain. For he is the servant of God, an avenger who carries out God's wrath on the wrongdoer.”(Romans 13:3-4 ESV)

Father God,

In your infinite wisdom, you created those who, deep in their hearts, strive to serve our country in military service. These men and women, Lord, protect the democracy and liberty that exist because You have provided it to us. Merciful Father, we lift our veterans up in Your name. We ask You, Father God, to care for these men and women, our brothers and sisters, fathers and mothers, aunts and uncles, and friends who willingly place themselves in harm's way. These active military men and women choose to stand in the gap for us.

Lord God, we also pray for those who have served and returned to civilian life. We pray for all of these men and women, many who, through the horrors of war, have made great sacrifices and lost a part of themselves both physically and mentally. Lift them up, Lord. Provide the care they need and deserve. May they all know or come to know the grace, peace, and mercy that comes to us through our faith in Christ.

Father God, we are thankful for these warrior poets who stand a watch for liberty. Hold them in Your hands, Lord. Protect them as they protect us. Lead them through the narrow gate.

In Christ’s name, we pray, Amen.