Heal the brokenhearted in Joplin...

A monster tornado ripped through and smashed the southwest Missouri city of Joplin on Sunday evening. A total of 116 fatalities have been confirmed among the widespread damage. The tornado also ravaged a major hospital, just when it was needed the most.

Having survived several tornadoes in the Midwest, I have a deep compassion for those devastated from natural disasters. I know from experience the first two to three days after such an event, everyone is so thankful to be alive. It is in the rough days that follow that people change.

People change as their hopes and dreams have been extinguished. They begin asking questions like “why me?”, “why didn't God just take me?”, “where was God?”, and “why does bad things happen to good people?”

Anger takes over the body with Satan leading the way. Yes, you are upset that you may have lost everything you have worked for, but God has saved you. Conditions were right for a terrible storm to flatten the town taking everything and everybody, but many were saved. Praise God!

Please join me in praying for these people as they begin to put back together their lives. Pray they will forever be thankful and that they will take the bad from all of this and make it good.

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28 NIV.

Our God does no evil, but he can cause and allow bad things to happen, but always for our own good. We are told in Psalm 147, “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” We are now calling on the LORD to heal the brokenhearted of Joplin.

Dear God in heaven ~ You are the almighty king of the universe and ruler of all things known and unknown. Hear the prayers of your dear children. I pray that these brokenhearted people will turn to you for strength, courage and guidance and not turn away from you. Wrap your loving arms around them as they face hardship and sorrow and embrace them with your unending love. In Jesus name. Amen and Amen!

Rick Hawbaker
Praying 4-U Ministries