Read 2 Chronicles 7:14

In 1968, an airplane headed for New York—a normally routine flight. But this time it proved to be otherwise.

While on their descent pattern, the pilot realized that the landing gear was not engaging. He messed around with the controls, trying again and again to get the gear to lock into place without success. He then asked ground control for instruction. As the plane circled the landing field, the emergency crew coated the runway with foam, and emergency vehicles moved into position.

Meanwhile, the passengers were told of each manoeuvre in that calm voice pilots do so well. Flight attendants glided about the cabin with an air of cool reserve. Passengers were told to place their heads between their knees and grab their ankles just before impact. There were tears and a few cries of despair. It was one of those “I can’t believe this is happening to me” experiences.

Then, with the landing only minutes away, the pilot suddenly announced over the intercom: “We are beginning our final descent. At this moment, in accordance with International Aviation Codes established at Geneva, it is my obligation to inform you that if you believe in God, you should commence prayer.”

The Bible tells us that God responds when His people pray:

If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land. (2 Chronicles 7:14)

Amid the celebration of fireworks and cookouts today, there are other not-so-joyful gatherings.

Some around you are struggling in the tunnels of deep grief having lost their soldier to combat. Still others are reeling from the latest terrorist attack. Given the horrifying evil of our times and the mind-boggling violence being perpetrated here and around the world, we all need to commence prayer. Take time today to plead with Him for mercy and protection, while at the same time thanking Him for the freedom that is ours. Then ask Him to heal our land and draw near to the brokenhearted.

Devotional content taken from Good Morning, Lord...Can We Talk? by Charles R. Swindoll. Copyright © 2018. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, a Division of Tyndale House Ministries. All rights reserved.

The full devotional can be purchased at https://www.tyndale.com/p/good-morning-lord-can-we-talk/9781414380681.