A PRAYER GUIDE FOR UNCERTAIN TIMES

 

My Flag Fruit Kabobs

Dear Friends,

Happy (slightly belated) Fourth of July!

No doubt you are aware of the events unfolding in our country today. With an election coming up, we are at a crossroads that will impact our country for years to come.

Part of me is indignant – fiercely so, as I watch this battle being played out. At the same time, I am tempted to feel powerless by my insignificance. I know this world is not my home, and I know that prophecy dictates that it will only get more evil until the Lord’s return.

So what are we to do? Beyond voting, whatever level of involvement you believe our role to be in civil or political matters, one thing is clear for us as believers: Our country’s turmoil is a spiritual battle. (Ephesians 6:12)

If our country has ever needed prayer, it is NOW.

I am speaking to myself as I propose one thing – Can we at least battle on our knees?

I say “at least” because it is the least we can do – but in reality, it is the most effective thing we can do.  We have access to the One who has the sovereign power to change the condition of this world and orchestrate the events of the years ahead. It is not only a command, but an undeserved privilege. Now that is empowering.

I’ve listed some scriptures to use as a prayer guide below. Print it out, set it before you if it helps, and use it as a means to stay on track as we all seek to approach God in persistent prayer.

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Pray that our nation would be able to emerge from its darkness and seek God and be a light to others. “See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the LORD rises upon you and his glory appears over you. Nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn.” Isaiah 60:2-3

Pray for all those in authority, for all of our leaders in government. “I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray in this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity.” 1 Timothy 2:1-5

Pray that God would give wisdom and knowledge to our government leaders and anyone in any position of authority. “Praise be to the name of God forever and ever; wisdom and power are his. He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning.” Daniel 2:20-21

Thank God that He is the one in full authority and in control of our nation. “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.” Romans 13:1

Pray that God’s will would be done in our nation. “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” Matthew 6:9-10

Pray that our hearts and our nation would pursue righteousness rather than sin. “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin condemns any people.” Proverbs 14:34

Pray that the fear of the LORD and godly wisdom would drive our actions and our country. “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” Proverbs 9:10

Pray that each of our words would be loving toward others and line up God’s Word. “A person’s words can be life-giving water; words of true wisdom are as refreshing as a bubbling brook.” Proverbs 18:4

Pray that each of us in our great nation would show love toward one another as Christ demonstrated for us. “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.” 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

Pray that we would be a nation who lives up to its name of United States of America and be united in love, mind, and thought. “I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there is no division among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought.” 1 Corinthians 1:10

Pray that God would hear our prayers and move in mighty ways in our nation. “We do not make requests of you because we are righteous, but because of your great mercy. Lord, listen! Lord, forgive! Lord, hear and act! For your sake, my God, do not delay, because your [nation] and your people bear your Name.” Daniel 9:19*

*taken from “https://embracing.life/article/scriptures-to-pray-for-america