As I am writing this piece, General Assembly has just finished. I spent the time before, during and after the sederunts praying for the moderator, the commissioners, the clerks, the help desk people and the technology. Having been a commissioner last year, I knew what a challenge everyone would face and how important it was to be covered in prayer.

We in orthodoxy have felt the need to be tough this last year with the way things are going in the PCC. And the future doesn’t look any easier. So we turn to God in prayer realizing that nothing that happens is a surprise to God and that He has a plan and it will be fulfilled.

Our Lord spent much time in prayer (Matthew 14:23; Mark 1:35; Luke 5:16), therefore it behooves us to spend much time in prayer.

After this GA, as after the last one, we may be asking God, “Why?” The prophets before us asked why. Job asked why. “Why have you made me your target?” (Job 7:20). David asked why. “Why, O Lord do you stand far off? Why have you forsaken me?” (Psalm 10:1). Jeremiah asked why. “O hope of Israel, its Saviour in times of distress, why are you like a stranger in the land, like a traveler who stays only a night?” (Jeremiah 14:8).

In order to experience God’s care in the midst of affliction, we must call out to Him in faith and persistent prayer. It is through prayer and trusting in Him that we experience God’s peace. We receive strength from the Lord, and God’s mercy, grace, and help in time of need. Nothing can separate us from the love of God.

Be reassured my friends: God is on the throne, He is in control. Our job is to pray continually and seek His face.