July 20 recognized as day of prayer and thanksgiving

June 30, 2008

JACKSONVILLE (FBC)—Florida Baptists are being encouraged to observe Sunday, July 20, as a “Day of Giving Thanks for Rain” said Rick Shepherd, director of the Florida Baptist Convention’s Prayer and Spiritual Awakening Department.

Shepherd recalled that on June 1 during a convention-wide effort, many Florida Baptist churches prayed for rain and mercy on the upcoming hurricane season, which started on that date. That call to prayer was initiated during the month of May when many areas in Florida were experiencing droughts and wildfires.

“It was a cry for mercy,” said Shepherd, “for rain and for spiritual awakening. God heard our prayers and answered.” On June 1, several Florida cities reported rainfall, which continued for the next two days.

“Since then we have seen much more rain. God has mercifully answered our requests for rain. We need to say ‘Thank You, Lord.’”

The nation is still in need of prayer, contends Shepherd, “most of all spiritually and morally.

“The wake-up calls are becoming louder and longer: more than 1,200 tornadoes have been reported this year, during a span of time which normally numbers 600; record flooding; and a rise in prices—gas, diesel, fertilizer, grain, food and groceries. The ripple effect continues to move across our land.”

Shepherd asked Florida Baptists give particular attention on July 20 “to reflect, give thanks … and intensify our praying.”

A free bulletin insert to guide Florida Baptist churches through this prayer process is available for download. For more information, contact the Department of Prayer and Spiritual Awakening at 800-226-8584, ext. 3098; 904-596-3098; or i366@flbaptist.org.