A gunman recently killed three people and injured others before ending his life at Fort Hood military post in Killeen, Texas. Soon, members of Skyline Baptist Church turned their weekly Bible study into a prayer service. Army Major Kevin Thompson, an officer at Fort Hood who serves as co-interim pastor, said, “We were praying for the victims and their families and that somehow God would find a way to prompt people to call out to Him through this incident, no matter how horrific.”

Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.

Romans 12:12

Elaine Clark was teaching the children at Skyline that evening about I Thessalonians 5:16-18, which says: “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” After Clark explained to a young girl the importance of knowing the Lord is always in control, even in danger, the girl responded: “You know God sent Jesus to die for that man,” referring to the shooter.

Whenever you question your circumstances, come to your Heavenly Father as His precious child, knowing that He promises to turn every difficulty into good. Remember also to pray that the nation’s leaders will find their hope and peace in God’s promises.

Recommended Reading: Romans 8:28-39