“Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”
—Hebrews 4:16
As the coronavirus overtakes our daily plans and businesses fill our email inboxes with precautions, the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA) has phone lines open to take calls for prayer. Trained Christian Response representatives are available to listen, and offer prayer and encouragement.
One caller recently said he’s depressed that everything is being cancelled and he can’t get to his appointments. Another asked for prayers of protection over family. One man shared concerns for his job, and a nursing home resident called to say his wife isn’t allowed to visit him. Several callers have asked to pray for the country and its leaders.
Following President Donald Trump’s move to declare this past Sunday a National Day of Prayer, Franklin Graham encouraged Christians to pray fervently over the effects of this virus.
“We need to call on God now. We need to pray that He would protect us from this virus that is turning the world upside down and gripping the hearts of men and women with fear,” Franklin Graham posted on Facebook after the president’s declaration.
“With so much uncertainty surrounding COVID-19 at home and around the world, people are afraid,” he continued Sunday. “Now is the time for Christians to be strong and courageous, knowing that Almighty God is with us. As His Word instructs, we are to cast our cares upon Him, because He cares for us (1 Peter 5:7).”
Graham asked believers to pray for those who are sick, anxious and facing economic difficulty, as well as medical professionals and the nation’s leaders as they make decisions that will impact millions. He also shared encouragement from Scripture:
The Bible teaches us to trust in God. In the Old Testament, Egypt was faced with 7 years of plenty and then 7 years of a drastic climate change where crops dried up and nothing grew. It was such a severe crisis that everyone could have died. But God sent Joseph to save not only his family, but all of Egypt. God provided. God also sent Jesus to save us. He is our Shepherd and our deliverer; and regardless of what storms we may face, He will be with us. This doesn’t mean that COVID-19 will disappear immediately; but the Word of God tells us that He loves us and will not leave us.
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10).
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If you’re worried about the coronavirus, have a specific prayer request related to COVID-19 or just want someone to talk to, call the BGEA Prayer Line at 1-888-388–2683. Lines are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
