Forty Days of Prayer

No matter where you go today, it seems people are asking the same question: “What can we do about the condition of our country?” Declining moral standards. The disintegration of the family. Redefining marriage. Economic turmoil. Seemingly endless bickering and posturing of our leaders. More than ever before, citizens are concerned about the welfare and future of our nation. As the national election draws nearer, we wonder, “What can I do? How can one person make a difference?”

Here is the answer: you can pray! During times of national concern, our first and foremost task is prayer. Listen to the apostle Paul’s words to young Timothy:

“I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth” (I Timothy 2:1-4).

I am inviting you to join me in 40 days of prayer for the United States of America. Beginning September 28 and ending on Election Day, November 6, will you offer this request to God?

 Dear Heavenly Father, You have given us this promise: “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land” (II Chronicles 7:14).

So, we turn to You. We turn from evil and look to You, our God. Please:
Unite us.
Strengthen us.
Appoint and anoint our next president.
In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ we pray, Amen.

Like you, I am a concerned citizen. Like you, I believe in God’s power to heal and preserve our nation. But we must fall on our face before God and pray! Again, please join me in 40 days of prayer for our nation and our leaders. Our God is a God Who answers prayer.

(Pastor’s Note: Some of this material adapted from Max Lucado, with grateful appreciation.)