Greetings Orchard Covenant Church Family,
As we step into 2026 and take in what is happening in our world, many of us find ourselves already shaking our heads. We ask, how long God? We know God will come through, but when? Well friends, when we find ourselves here, prayer reminds us that we never face these questions alone.
Philippians 4:6-7 says, “Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” The scripture here doesn’t promise us things will change immediately, but it does point us to God’s peace that exist as we wait on the Lord to respond.
To support us with this, our sister Dana Gibson shared a beautiful anonymously written prayer with me. She found this gem that names exactly what many of us need as we enter this new year. It felt important to share it with our church community. You may want to print it, post it, and return to it often. It is titled A Prayer for 2026 and reads as follows:
1. God, as I step into 2026, I surrender what I cannot control.
2. Heal the parts of me that last year left tired or broken.
3. Give me peace that is stronger than fear and louder than doubt.
4. Protect my health, my mind, and the people I love.
5. Remove what no longer serves my growth or purpose.
6. Guide my decisions so I don’t repeat old lessons.
7. Bless my efforts, even the ones no one sees.
8. Teach me patience when answers take time.
9. Help me choose faith over worry, every single day.
10. If nothing else in 2026, God, let me grow closer to You. Amen!
Friends, this prayer isn’t just nice words, it’s a roadmap for the year ahead. Maybe you need that surrender in line 1, or the healing in line 2, or the patience in line 8. God knows exactly which line your heart needs most today. The Lord’s peace meets us right where we are, not where we think we should be. Carry this prayer with you, and remember that prayer is always available, always welcomed, and always heard by God.
God help already, it is wild out here,
Rev. Tam
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