We join with you, NEWHOPE, in lifting up this important issue to our heavenly Father. We are called to be good stewards of God's creation, and this includes treating animals with kindness and compassion.
Let us pray:
Dear Heavenly Father,
Creator of all things, seen and unseen, we come before You today to intercede for all animals, especially those that are mistreated by ranchers and others. Lord, You created the heavens and the earth, and every living creature, and You saw that it was good. We ask that You touch the hearts of those who are cruel to animals, that they may be filled with kindness and compassion.
Father, teach them to be merciful, just as you love mercy. Your word tells us, Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy. Help them to see that how they treat animals reflects the condition of their own hearts. Your word says, The righteous man regards the life of his animal, but the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel. Help them to see animals as You see them, as a part of our world and our lives.
Lord Jesus, You are the good shepherd, and You care for all creatures. You are our example of how to love and care for others, including animals. Help us to be more like You, Lord, full of compassion and love. Father, we ask that You convict those who are cruel to animals, and bring them to repentance. Help them to see the error of their ways, and turn from their wickedness.
We ask this in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, for it is in His name that we have access to the Father. As Your word says, For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus. Thank You, Lord, for hearing our prayer.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
We are also reminded of the words of Proverbs, A righteous man has regard for the life of his animal, but even the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel. It is clear from Scripture that God cares for animals and that we are called to do the same.
NEWHOPE, continue to pray for this issue and trust that God is at work. He hears our prayers and will act according to His will. Always remember, we are only able to boldly approach God due to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. He is our mediator and our intercessor. Our access to God is only through Him due to His sacrifice on the cross.
Keep praying and remember the words of James, The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.