January 25, 2026
Welcome to Praying the News.
Today’s edition was written before news broke that federal agents fatally shot a 37-year-old Minnesota man who was protesting ICE operations on Saturday. The Pour Over will bring you more information and a prayer in your inbox tomorrow morning.
Happy Sunday,
Every so often, a news story really gets to me. This week, that story was anti-ICE protesters entering Cities Church in St. Paul, visibly rattling worshipers during their Sunday service (catch up here).
I have issues with fear on Sunday mornings to begin with—I’ve written about more church attacks than is healthy for a person. So, it was unnerving to see parents shielding their kids at a church that seemed quite similar to the one I call home.
But as is so often the case, my search for Scripture to encourage TPO’s audience ended up engraving the Lord’s comfort on my own heart:
“My enemies will turn back in the day when I call.
This I know, that God is for me.
In God, whose word I praise, in the Lord, whose word I praise,
in God I trust; I shall not be afraid.
What can man do to me?...
For you have delivered my soul from death,
yes, my feet from falling,
that I may walk before God in the light of life.”
Psalm 56:9-13 (ESV)
This one’s going in the memory bank, because I need to wake up every morning and call to mind that my deliverance is already complete. I shall not be afraid. What can man do to me?
Let’s pray for courage and justice in our sanctuaries and among the most persecuted:
Gracious Father,
You are our sanctuary and refuge in moments of fear and uncertainty.
Your strength is unmatched, Your victory over death and darkness is sure,
and You are for us.
Grow our confidence when fear settles in,
so that in moments of chaos, our faith points others to our Rock.
God our Refuge,
As Minneapolis wrestles with unrest,
may Cities Church and others be beacons of light,
graciously and patiently bearing with their neighbors,
pursuing justice while leaving vengeance in Your capable hands.
We remember those around the world who fear for their lives
every time they gather for worship.
Give them courage and endurance to press on through fear and anxiety,
confident that the prize of worshiping You among Your people
is worth any risk.
Protect them from any who would harm them—
may their enemies become brothers and sisters, turning to Christ,
or may they be cut off,
never to threaten Your people again.
Provide for the needs of the persecuted and their families
and bring justice.
In a world that’s often hostile and scary,
we trust that You are at work for our good,
leading us along a narrow path to a home free from trouble and turmoil.
May the peace of that kingdom rule in our hearts as we wait.
Amen.
Yours in Christ,
Steph Juliot
Recommended Reading
Psalm 56
Recommended Resource
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