Seek the peace of the city where I have caused you to be carried away as captives and pray unto the Lord for it: for in the peace thereof shall ye have peace (Jeremiah 29:7).
I care deeply about my community, where my neighbors and I support, give, and look out for each other—often praying for those around us. I have my prayer warriors, my mothers in Christ, Mrs. Hanesworth, who sleeps with a bible by her side, always interceding on our behalf. Jolyn and Mrs. Holly (R.I.P.), up at midnight, praying for peace in our community. You never saw the room light in their bedroom go out. Mrs. Dillard, her kitchen stays open feeding the boys n’ the hood, and praying for our safety, giving good advice to those in need. Mr. & Mrs. McCoy (R.I.P.), ministering to our youth about the importance of knowing Jesus, and our first neighborhood watch.
Oliver Smith, always lending a helping hand. If he had ten hands, all of them would be busy working and helping others. Mr. & Mrs. Duncan, the loving couple who are always giving gifts for the holidays, showing up on our front porches with apple cider juice, putting a smile on our faces. Mrs. Childress, Mrs. Douse, Mrs. Brewster, Gi-Gi, Ms. Frankie and Mrs. Hazel, all who give their beautiful smiles to warm our hearts. This is why our block is beautiful, loving and safe.
We are commanded to pray for families, relationships with neighbors, our schools, our churches, our politicians, leaders and community helpers for peace and safety, taking authority over our territory, rebuking and binding principalities, demons, witches, witchcraft and violence so that our communities may thrive as Jesus would have them to do.
So, Abba Father, we ask for our communities to flourish. It is written; how good and pleasant it is when God’s people live in unity (Psalms 133: 1-3). Therefore, I declare and decree to take authority over my territory, teaching, sharing and loving one another. I plead the blood over our communities and our children, binding and rebuking poverty, alcohol, gang violence, drug addiction, witchcraft, and all negative activity, casting it into hell, in Jesus’ name. Open our eyes and heart to all who are rejected, depressed, oppressed, powerless and overlooked.
Grant our leader’s wisdom and discernment to make the right decisions that will bring you honor, glory and justice. In Jesus mighty name. Amen. For I was hungry, and you gave me food. I was thirsty and you gave me drink. I was a stranger, and you welcomed me. (Matthew 25:35).
