Prayer Helps

The children who were removed in April from the polygamist retreat center, Yearning for Zion Ranch in Texas, have many concerned advocates now. People care whether they have been subjected to sexual and physical abuse. I am glad that we live among people who try to watch out for the best interests of children.

But it doesn't change the fact that these children's lives are turned upside down right now. The abuses and neglect that seems likely to have marred their young lives has been replaced with sudden removal from everything that was familiar. I doubt that many of those rescued children feel safe yet.

It is so tragic and overwhelming. So many children. Such secrecy about their former lives. What is the best way to help them?

My heart hurts for all those children. It is stressful to suddenly be expected to make decisions (when others have controlled you for years) and it is stressful to have contact suddenly severed from your family (no matter how they behaved).

It seems to me that the only thing that the majority of us can do is pray for them. But fortunately, God can do much with earnest prayers. I will add my prayer below in case any of you would like to join me:

Heavenly Father, we ask you to surround these children with your loving care. Please help them to cope emotionally and protect them from further harm. You know exactly what has happened to each child. Only You know whether any of these children could be safely returned to their parents. Bless each foster parent who tries to help these children, give them wisdom and sensitivity. Help these children to feel your comfort and your loving presence. Lead and direct medical teams, psychologists, social workers, lawyers, and judges into the best way to help these children. You know what they need better than we do, Lord, may Your will be done. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.