As Veterans Day approaches, we pause to reflect on the immense courage and commitment of those who have served in our military. These men and women responded to a call of duty, dedicating themselves to defend freedom, face tremendous challenges, and fight with relentless resolve. Beyond the ceremonies and parades, however, lies a deeper duty: to stand with them—not just in gratitude, but also through action and prayer.
Why Lift Up Our Veterans?
Veterans don’t just carry the weight of their past service—they embody it. They bring discipline, resilience, and a deep commitment to the challenges they face in civilian life. These warriors have endured battles—both seen and unseen—and emerged with stories that continue to inspire. As Psalm 144:1 reminds us, “Blessed be the Lord, my rock, who trains my hands for war, and my fingers for battle.”
In the Bible, warriors like David, Gideon, and Joshua overcame impossible odds. But they didn’t fight alone; they found strength in God, who gave them courage and resilience. Veterans, too, need to know they are supported—not out of pity, but in respect for their sacrifice and the continuing mission they carry.
How Prayer Empowers Our Veterans
Prayer is not a gesture of sympathy—it’s an act of solidarity. Through prayer, we affirm the grit, determination, and resilience of these warriors, offering them strength and clarity as they face new battles and opportunities in civilian life.
1. Strength for New Challenges: Veterans must face life after service with the same bravery they had while in uniform. Through prayer, we ask God to give them renewed strength for the path ahead (Joshua 1:9).
2. Peace of Mind: The battles may be over, but the effects linger. Prayer offers a source of inner peace, helping veterans find calm and focus, knowing they are never alone on their journey (Psalm 23:4).
3. Resilience and Purpose: Every veteran has a unique story and mission. In prayer, we lift up their pursuit of purpose, assuring them that they are equipped for growth and greatness (Isaiah 41:10).
Prayers for Veterans
Here are specific prayers to lift up our veterans:
– For Strength in Transition:
“Lord, we lift up the warriors who have served with courage. Give them strength and clarity as they transition to new missions. May they continue to impact those around them with the same dedication. Amen.”
– For Peace in All Circumstances:
“Heavenly Father, we pray for peace over those who have faced the intensity of battle. Let Your presence provide comfort and assurance as they move forward. Amen.”
– For Resilience and Purpose:
“God, we ask that each veteran finds renewed purpose and resilience. May they know they are called for greatness beyond their service and are equipped with the strength to achieve it. Amen.”
Beyond November 11th
Prayer is only one way to stand with our veterans. This Veterans Day, let’s make a commitment to support them year-round:
– Engage with Veteran Organizations: Connect with groups that empower veterans, advocate for their rights, and assist with their transitions.
– Support Veteran-Owned Businesses: Show appreciation by supporting businesses run by veterans, celebrating their entrepreneurial spirit and resilience.
– Learn and Advocate: Educate yourself on veterans’ issues and advocate for policies that honor their service and support their continued missions.
The battles may be over, but the impact of their service continues. Prayer offers veterans the inner peace and focus they need, ensuring they never walk alone (Psalm 23:4).
This Veterans Day, let’s do more than honor them for just one day. Let’s commit to supporting our veterans as the warriors they are—strong, disciplined, and ready to make a difference. Through prayer, action, and community, we can help them move into their next great purpose.
Drew Forsberg is a retired Navy SEAL and co-founder of Beyond the Brotherhood. He serves as Retreat Leader for Pray.com, the No. 1 app for daily prayer and faith-based audio content. Founded in 2016 with a mission to grow faith and cultivate community, Pray.com makes it easier than ever to incorporate prayer into daily life.
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