PRAYER SWEETS ... November 2025 ... Elder Terrilyn Shorter

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Scripture Focus: “When your children ask their fathers in time to come, saying, ‘What are these stones?’ then you shall let your children know, saying, ‘Israel crossed over this Jordan on dry land.’” 

— Joshua 4:21–22 (NKJV)-

“Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, 

whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report… meditate on these things.” — Philippians 4:8 (NKJV)

As we approach a season of thanksgiving, it’s easy to be distracted by the noise of the world around us. The headlines may shout of government shutdowns, political turmoil, and uncertainty about what’s next. Yet, in the midst of instability, God’s Word calls us to pause, remember, and reflect. When Joshua led the Israelites across the Jordan River, God commanded them to take twelve stones from the riverbed — one for each tribe — and set them up as a memorial. These stones were not for decoration; they were a tangible reminder of God’s faithfulness. Whenever doubt or fear would arise, Israel could look back at those stones and remember: God made a way where there was no way.

We, too, are called to build memorials of thanksgiving in our hearts. Every answered prayer, every moment of provision, every instance of peace in the middle of chaos — these are our stones. When the world shakes, we can look back and say, “The same God who brought me through before will do it again.”  Even now, when the economy seems uncertain and leaders seem divided, we must remind ourselves that God’s provision does not depend on earthly systems. He is not shaken by shutdowns or swayed by politics. His kingdom operates on faith, not fear. That’s why Paul’s words in Philippians 4:8 is so vital. When everything around us seems impure or unjust, we are invited to lift our thoughts higher: to think on what is true, noble, pure, lovely, and praiseworthy. Thanksgiving begins not with what we see, but with how we see.

So today, take a moment to reflect on your own “twelve stones.” 

•What miracles has God already performed in your life?
• What prayers has He answered that you once thought was impossible?
• What daily provisions have you overlooked in your rush to the next thing?

1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NIV): Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ
Jesus” This is an acknowledgement that even in the midst of trials and tribulations, God is still
present, still in control, and still working all things together for our good. As you count these memorials of grace, thanksgiving will rise in your heart — not because everything around you is perfect, but because you know the One who is.

 Prayer:
Heavenly Father, 

We come before you with hearts full of gratitude. Thank you for your countless 

blessings, for your enduring love, and for the gift of your son, Jesus Christ. Help us to cultivate a spirit
of thanksgiving that is not limited by our circumstances but is a constant reflection of your goodness.

Open our eyes to see your hand in every aspect of our lives, and empower us to worship you not just
with our words, but with our grateful hearts and lives. Thank You for being my constant source of
provision and peace. When the world feels uncertain, remind me of the “stones” in my life — the
moments that testify of Your faithfulness. Help me to fix my thoughts on what is pure, lovely, and true.
Let my heart overflow with thanksgiving, not just for what You will do, but for all You have already
done. In Jesus’ name, Amen 

Written By: Elder Terrilyn Shorter