During these troubled times of uncertainty, we Floridians face a world of hurt via Hurricane Irma coming what seems to be straight up the entire state. Many of our friends and family across the country are watching the news with baited breath, making phone calls to their loved ones down south here in Florida and praying for our safe survival of the storm.

Many of us here have evacuated or plan to do so, with Jet Blue offering $99 direct flights and $159 for flights with layovers. With Jose also forming right behind dear Irma, we are waiting to hear on that front as well. I thought it would behoove us all, even those who aren't spiritual, to have a list of psalms to help pray in order to help keep us Floridians safe from harms way (as much as humanly possible). Or any of us around the world experiencing natural disasters.

As an aside, please do not feel as though I am trying to force religion upon you, I am NOT. I am just providing suggestions for those who are at a loss, or want to help even when they are far away, and for those of us who are staying in the state to ride out good old Irma.

For those fearful:

Joshua 1:9

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord Your God will be with you wherever you go."

O God, Our Refuge

O God, our refuge and strength
our help in times of trouble.

Have mercy on the lands where the earth has given way.
Have mercy on the lands where the weather has destroyed livelihoods.
Prosper those who rebuild houses,
and strengthen those who rebuild hope
so that entire communities
may face the future without fear.

Amen.

Psalm 46: God is our Refuge

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change,
though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea;
though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with its tumult.
God is in the midst of the city; it shall not be moved;
God will help it when the morning dawns.
The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge.

For Hope:

Psalm 16:8I have set the LORD always before me. Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.

Psalm 119:114-115You are my refuge and my shield; I have put my hope in Your word.

Psalm 120:1I call on the LORD in my distress, and he answers me

Job 11:18You will be secure, because there is hope; you will look about you and take your rest in safety.

For Safety:

Psalm 46:1 God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble

Nahum 1:7 The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him

For those who do believe in the power of prayer, I encourage you to say these. Not just for those who are currently racing around local stores here in Florida for the storm essentials. But for those in other locations in the world going through natural disasters and could always use these prayers.

Stay safe my fellow Floridians, and God Bless you all. May the Lord and Saint Michael envelope us in his wings and arms and protect us from evil. Wherever it may come.