God of Hope,
Lift up our hearts when we are bombarded by news of economic woe, national/international strife, hurting people, impending weather catastrophes, and other worries. Help us to not be discouraged when the ways of the world seem so strong and dark. Fill us with all joy and hope in our believing. Remind us that you are the One who is worthy of all praise and worship. Do not let us make idols of government, institutions, jobs, families, recreation, or anything else. Focus us on that which is true, noble, pure, trustworthy, and of you. Help us to relax into your peace, knowing you are always in control.
Amen.
Brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. (Phil. 4:8-9 NIV)
Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again–my Savior and my God! (Psalm 43:5 NLT)