Lord God, when we look at today’s headlines we read of bribery and bickering and duplicity in the halls of Westminster and the Metropolitan police’s corruption and immorality. We see strikes bringing commerce and industry to a halt and inflation choking hard working families. It is hard not to be discouraged; yet Psalm 42 tells us not to be downcast or disturbed, but to put our hope in You, our Saviour and our God. Please lead us as we pray and trust You, even when we do not understand what You are doing. Jesus, please send your Spirit to shepherd our leaders and direct them to follow the paths you have prepared. Remove the dross from selfish business dealings and replace it with integrity and honesty. Give courage and unity to our politicians and union bosses so that Your will is agreed on and accomplished in the workplace.