ASSEMBLIES OF GOD
Praying for America
Now that the Republican National Convention has ended and with the Democratic Convention soon to begin, I find myself reflecting about our nation and recent events.
The world was shocked on Saturday, July 13, to see an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. A bullet struck Trump’s ear just as he turned his head, narrowly escaping fatal injury. It was a horrific act that has been justly condemned throughout the world. Tragically, an attendee was killed and two others were critically wounded.
The motives behind this horrific attack are still under investigation. What seems clear though, is that both sides of the political aisle are realizing the need for more unity and toned-down rhetoric. That’s welcomed news in a political climate that has become increasingly divided and malicious over the past decade.
It’s easy — especially on social media — to demonize those with whom we disagree, using slurs, tropes, exaggerations, or outright lies. The ones we demonize become dehumanized. The ones we dehumanize become easy targets for violence.
In our AG National Office chapel earlier this week, we prayed for the candidates using 1 Timothy 2:1-3 as a guide:
“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people — for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior.”
Following is a brief prayer guide based on Paul’s guidance to Timothy that I challenge you to adopt in the coming days.
1. Pray for our nation. Paul urged that “prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people,” (v.1). Let’s pray for God to send revival to our nation and turn the hearts of America back to Him.
2. Pray for our leaders and candidates. The prayer for “kings and all those in authority,” (v.2) is a challenge to uphold our leaders and candidates in prayer. Pray for their safety and protection. Pray for their salvation. Pray that God will give them wisdom.
3. Pray for peace and holiness. The hopeful outcome of this prayer is, “that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness,” (v.3). Let’s pray that God will turn chaotic hearts to peaceful and quiet lives. Pray that hearts will turn from sin in repentance and live lives of holiness.
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