More than 1.3 million laid-off workers won’t get their unemployment benefits reinstated before the Independence Day holiday weekend. Republicans in the Senate again successfully filibustered a bill Wednesday night that would continue providing unemployment checks to people laid off for long stretches. The House is slated to vote on a similar measure Thursday, though the Senate’s vote makes the House action a futile gesture. The benefits would have been made available through the end of November, and cost of $33.9 billion which would have been borrowed, adding to the budget deficit.

“God, government is not the solution to our national economic problems or the problems of those individuals suffering without income. You are our provider. We ask today for favor and blessing on those who have suffered lay-offs from work during this economic turndown. For those without income, or with minimal income we ask that you would provide for them in creative and consistent ways. Bring them hope and faith. Guard them against fear and hopelessness. Give them courage and incentive and ideas for how to navigate these crisis in their lives. Provide! It is your nature and your very name. In Jesus name we pray…”