Prayer and the Election

In a few months, Americans will go to the polls to vote for President of the United States.


Until then, discussions regarding who will lead the nation during the next four years will likely be very polarizing.

Such discussions tend to take on a "we versus they" overtone.

I am convinced that as the election draws nearer the nature of these discussions will become even more heated and the election itself could prove to be more divisive rather than decisive.

I will neither use this platform to tell you whom I will vote for, nor will I use it to tell you whom you should vote for.

I will use it to tell you that you that prayer should be incorporated before and after the election.

First. prayerfully consider how you will cast your vote.

God has blessed America and its citizens with rights that citizens of some nations only dream of having.

Exercising the right to vote is a form of stewardship.

That means the preparation and reasoning that goes into whom you choose to vote for is very important.

In the time between today and election day, prayerfully ask God for wisdom in making your choice and thank Him for having the right to vote.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV) - Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

Whether your candidate wins or loses, remember that God is ultimately still in charge.

Proverbs 16:9 (NIV) - In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.

Finally, no matter which of the candidates wins the election, all Christians have a moral obligation to respect the office and the person who holds it.

Romans 13:1 (NIV) - 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.

Christians also have a moral obligation to pray for their leaders whether they voted for them or not,

1 Timothy 2:1-2 (NIV) - 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.

Pray that the President is given sound advice on which he will make difficult decisions.

Pray that the President has the courage to make those difficult decisions.

Pray for his health and well being.

Remember that the job of President is difficult, stressful and often times thankless.

After the election, there are bound to hard feelings between the supporters of each candidate.

Remember that, as a nation, we are stronger when united than we are when we are divided.

There is real hope for healing the scars of division.

It is no surprise that this hope also lies in prayer.

2 Chronicles 7:14 (NIV) - 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 I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.


Blessings,

Jim Pokorny

The Other Brother Jim

Look for me at http://faithfulfeetteam.blogspot.com/ on Friday, July 20, 2012.

Please enjoy the contributions of my fellow Christian bloggers while you are there!

I’ll be back here on Friday, July 27, 2012.

Schedule subject to change.