Hope in the midst of hardship
God's word is certainly an ever present help in the time of need (Psalm 46:1-2). This article pulls the top four verses that people searched for after the mass shooting in Vegas. I know that I found strength in these (and other) verses.
The top four verses were:
John 16:33: “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
Psalm 34:18: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
Romans 12:19: “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.”
Psalm 11:5 “The Lord examines the righteous, but the wicked, those who love violence, he hates with a passion.”
Read the full article here: http://www.christianitytoday.com/news/2017/october/after-mass-shootings-top-bible-verses-psalm-34-18-las-vegas.html
All of these verses are powerful reminders of the power and presence of God in the midst of hardship. I find that combining the assurance found in the Scripture with the encouragement of God's people is the best recipe. There is just something that happens when we look each other in the eyes and speak the truth in love.
I'm so thankful for the group that gathered for prayer, in the wake of the shooting. We centered our prayer around the Lord's prayer - elevating the Lord, submitting to His Will, then asking for His provision. It was a night of great comfort and healing.