This is a virtual service. There is an opening greeting from Terry and then a directed prayer written by Jim. Following the prayer is a message that was delivered by James Smith. James is a counselor, River member, and group leader. Terry asked James to speak on the themes of Proverbs 5-7 from a counselor’s perspective. One of the dominant themes from Proverbs 5-7 is the adulterous woman and how sexual sin is dangerous.

This service is self directed. Listen to Terry’s greeting and scroll down to progress through the prayer and on to James’ message. If you would like to jump to the message, click here.

Greeting from Terry

Today churches across America are gathering and praying for God’s hand of protection. We are also asking God to use this time to make Himself known to others.

Join with others from River and pray this prayer today.

Jesus, we praise you this morning as the unchangeable God!
We know that the grass may wither and the flowers fade, but you will always remain.
You are the same yesterday, today, and forever.
We take comfort in this truth.

We come to you this morning lifting
our prayers to you concerning the coronavirus.

First, we ask that in your mercy, you would stop this pandemic and save lives.
Save lives, not only in our community but around the world,
especially in places that are unequipped medically to deal with the virus.

We ask that you, give President Trump and other government leaders,
including international, federal, state, and local leaders,
wisdom to direct us in the best courses of action for prevention and care.

We pray that you protect our missionaries and their families around the globe,
Please use this crisis to advance the gospel.

Finally, we ask that you give each of us wisdom in moving forward.
We know many people are fearful as the foundations of what they’ve known and trusted in have been shaken.
We pray that they would realize how fragile life is and how real eternity is.

We pray that they would see their need and turn to you.
Help us be aware of opportunities to share the gospel.
We pray that we would be a courageous people who have no fear of sudden disaster.
You alone are our confidence!

Bring your requests to God.

Confess your need for God.

Confess to God how you have ignored Him.

Ask God to speak to you.

Read Hebrews 13:15

15 Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name. 16 And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased

Sing the Doxology

Praise God,
from Whom all blessings flow;
Praise Him,
all creatures here below;
Praise Him above,
ye heav’nly host;
Praise Father, Son,
and Holy Ghost.

Amen