It seems like there’s always more bad news than good. Take today. Yes, it’s Christmas and where I live, a “white Christmas” at that. But all is not cheer and good will. Just read the paper, or these days, the news link on your favorite website.

Today the headlines are:

Feuding politicians in Washington

A brewing revolution in Iran

A volcano in the Philippines

Another suicide bombing in Pakistan

A dust storm in Arizona

Does God care? Indeed. Instead of wringing our hands, let’s pray. Praying off the front page is a great way to “feel” empowered and to release our fears and concerns to God. He can do something!

“God, the world is not as you intend. Instead of worrying, we will pray. You’re concerned about the economy, about unemployment, about people suffering from sickness and disease, war and natural disasters. You care about bringing this wayward world under your charge. So we know that when we pray, we’re agreeing with what you already desire. We ask for your intrusion into the troubles of this world. And we’ll trust you to make a difference. In Jesus…”

Check out the other “21 Ways to Pray” in a special Beliefnet devotional I’ve written. And as always, feel free to add in your own perspectives.