The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. (Psalm 18:2 NIV)
Today, we remember the fighters — those who have served in our nation’s military, both living and deceased. We remember the “11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month” in 1918, when World War I came to an end. On this Veterans Day, we honor the courage, sacrifice, and faithfulness of the men and women throughout history who have worked to keep our nation safe and free. Whatever their roles may have been, each one has played a vital part in defending and serving our country.
But not everyone who fights for our nation wears a military uniform.
Some are fighting through prayer and spiritual strength, standing in the gap to protect our nation and her people from the forces of evil. Others are fighting in the natural realm—working to give our children a fair chance at life, health, education, and a hopeful future.
Some fight for better economic and social conditions, while others strive to improve governance at every level. Still others fight to build strong, resilient communities or to nurture the nation’s artistic and cultural life.
The ways we can fight for our nation—without fighting against one another—are truly endless.
Today, let us remember with gratitude all those who have fought and continue to fight for this nation.
God,
Thank you for the many men and women who have fought for this nation — both in the military and as civilians. Thank you for the strength and courage you place within those whom you call to defend, improve, and pray for our country. We remember their sacrifices and do not take them lightly. We know that laying down one’s life for others is one of the greatest acts of love.
Help us to be people of prayer — continually lifting up our military, our nation’s leaders, and the fabric of our culture — so that our country may remain strong, united, and steadfast. We pray that this nation’s prayer warriors will continue to rise up and intercede for the heart and soul of America — for revival in the Church and reformation throughout society.
Help us to stay watchful, to stand firm in the faith, and to never give up fighting for truth, justice, and a future filled with hope.We ask these things in Jesus’s name, AMEN.
Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. (1 Corinthians 16:13 ESV)
Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. (John 15:13 NIV)
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. (2 Timothy 4:7 NIV)