Author: Elton Streyle, Contributor: Noah, Photography and Editing: Ali

Heavenly Father, I come to You in the Name of Your Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, to thank You for directing and giving courage to those men and women in the military, as well as other organizations, who have given their lives for the freedom of our country. It is very patriotic to give your life for someone else’s benefit. Proverbs 10:7a “The memory of the righteous is blessed.”

Forgive us as a nation for the disrespect that is shown, by some, to those who are wounded physically and mentally after defending and protecting us. Make us aware that it is unacceptable for our nation to have homeless veterans forced to live on the streets as a result of the physical and mental health issues they suffer because of their service. Many veterans are distraught, and even committing suicide.

I ask that You work in the hearts and minds of our government and military leaders to do all that is possible to help our veterans. Encourage us as believers in Jesus Christ to do what we can to share the Gospel with them. That is their only real hope of recovery. Direct them to understand that You gave Your only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, to come and die for our sins so that all who choose a personal relationship with You by accepting Jesus Christ as Savior can ultimately reside in heaven and can now experience John 14:27. “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”

I also ask that You give healing, comfort, and peace to the caregivers of those who have been injured from the devastations of war, terrorism, and crime. Give the young children in these situations guidance, protection, and draw them to Yourself. Thank you for inviting all of us to do like the Psalmist David did by crying out to You. Psalm 120:1 “In my distress I cried to the LORD, and He heard me.”

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

P.S. You can contact the Veterans Crisis Line by calling 1-800-273-8255 and pressing 1, texting 838255, or chatting online here: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/get-help-now/chat/