National Day of Prayer

Today is the National Day of Prayer - a day set aside for Americans to pray and intercede for America, our people and our leaders in all areas of influence.

May I encourage you today (and everyday for that matter) to remember to take some time to pray for our nation? We have so much to be thankful for. 1 Timothy 2:1-2 says "I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone - 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." Also, 2 Chronicles 7:14 says "If my people, who are called by my name, will 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."

Everywhere we turn in this country, there is talk of change. Change that should take place; promises that change will take place; ideas of how it should happen and who should usher it in. But God forbid that we even take one step without first seeking God's will and guidance in all humility before Him.

As blessed as we are, our nation is also in great need of prayer. Some might say as never before. One only needs to turn on the local news to see that's true. But it's not just the obvious stuff we need to pray for. God says in Proverbs 14:12 "There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death." We need to pray for God's wisdom and leading for everyone from the President right on down to you and me. Pray not only for His wisdom but also for the courage and conviction to follow that leading.

No matter one's opinion on the condition of our nation, one thing is certain, people all over this world continue to look to us for hope, for help and for influence. Let's pray that that influence would start and end with our reliance upon God.

I hope you enjoy your time in His presence. Be sure to check out www.nationaldayofprayer.org for some great information. And for those whose hearts and interests stretch beyond our borders, the Global Day of Prayer is coming up on May 11. Check out www.globaldayofprayer.com

Remember, "Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord." Psalm 33:12

Melanie