In recent years, hatred across our country has escalated. Division in America is more prevalent than ever before. Videos and images of the statues and monuments representing our founding fathers have been vandalized and even torn down. We can point fingers and place blame, but the fact remains that our nation is moving away from our firm foundation - the Solid Rock - the Cornerstone - Jesus. In fact, in God's Word, the nation of Israel was repeatedly warned to follow the precepts given to them. When they tried to live life on their own, they failed, and rebellion resulted. We must learn from history so we do not repeat it.
A few years ago, during a riot, I watched a video of someone splattering red paint on George Washington's monument, covering his face. My heart dropped, and tears flowed. Immediately, I remembered one of George Washington's prayers from his Prayer Journal at Mount Vernon.
"O eternal and everlasting God... increase my faith in the sweet promises of the gospel; give me repentance from dead works; pardon my wanderings, and direct my thoughts unto thyself, the God of my salvation: Teach me how to live in thy fear, labor in the service, and ever to run in the ways of they commandments. Make me always watchful over my heart, that neither the terrors of conscience, the loathing of holy duties, the love of sin, nor an unwillingness to depart this life, may cast me into a spiritual slumber. But, daily frame me more and more into the likeness of thy son Jesus Christ, that living in they fear, and dying in the favor, I may in thy appointed time attain the resurrection of the just unto eternal life; bless my family, friends, and kindred."
Wow! What an example of a leader who followed Christ closely, read God's Word daily, and even journaled his prayers. But, as the Bible says in John 10:10, "the thief comes to kill, steal, and destroy." Our enemy is working to destroy our country's heritage, history, and foundation. As prayer warriors, we must join the battle in praying for our nation like never before!
Confession Time: I must admit, through the years, that I've failed to fervently pray for our nation, our leaders, and the next generation. Many times, it's when life starts to tumble, and we remember, "Oh, I need to start praying." And sadly, I must admit my prayers for our country fell flat because I doubted and didn't TRUST GOD FULLY to answer the request.
BUT... TODAY IS A NEW DAY! I humbly ask God to forgive me for failing to pray regularly. I praise Him for His forgiveness and grace. I TRUST GOD FULLY as I Pray for Our Nation!
"The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer: My God, my strength, in whom I will trust; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised; So shall I be saved from my enemies." Psalm 18:2-3
Lord,
You are the Rock and Strength of this nation. You are the only One who can deliver us from our enemies. We trust in You and pray humbly for Your guidance and direction for this great nation. Give us Your wisdom to make the right choices. Help us live in such a way that Your name will be honored in all things. May You forever be praised. (IF MY PEOPLE, pg. 19)
From My Heart to Yours,
Carla McDougal