Let’s face it. 2020 has not been a very good year for America. The covid pandemic, economic downturn, racial tensions, and political division rocked the nation. And there is no expectation that things will get better anytime soon. Is there any hope?
May the LORD answer you in the day of trouble (Psalm 20:1a)
Yes, our hope is in the Lord. He sees our troubles and hears our prayers. In fact, Jesus taught,
that men always ought to pray and not lose heart (Luke 18:1a)
Instead of panicking about our national problems, we should pray. The Apostle Paul said,
Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority (1 Timothy 2:1-2a)
He urged us to pray as a top priority and gave specifics for the types of prayers we should say:
A. Supplications to God are to be made. That means to petition heaven for someone’s needs. Isn’t America in need of Divine help?
B. The word “prayers” that he used is associated with earnest prayer. We are to pray real and serious prayers. Doesn’t America need thoughtful and somber prayer?
C. He said to intercede, that means to pray on someone’s behalf to mediate or gain favor. We should pray that people will be reconciled to God. Doesn’t America need to get right with the Lord?
D. Finally, we are to give thanks for others. When is the last time you told God “thank you” for a politician, coworker, the police, or even your boss?
Paul also said we are to pray for ALL people, not just our family and friends. He specifically called out rulers and authorities as being in need of prayer. When you think about the list of types of prayer, it makes sense that we should plead with the Almighty that our leaders would seek His wisdom. Why are we to pray these things?
that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. (1 Timothy 2:2b-4)
We pray for others so that we can lead peaceful lives, showing godliness and honesty. Isn’t this what we want for America? This would please God because He wants everyone to be saved, and how we live helps people know the truth about Him.
Please pray for America that God’s truth would come to every heart and heal our nation.