“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”—2 Chronicles 7:14 (NIV).
Hate, bitterness, name-calling and finger pointing. What do these words have in common? They all have negative connotations.
With the countdown to the November 6 election, negativity abounds as people’s displeasure of the way things are going in our country overflows into all areas of our lives. The only way to avoid it is to become a hermit. I dislike election years and am always glad when the final tally is announced, even if the individuals I voted for are not elected.
Several Christian groups and churches across the U.S. have invited citizens to pray for our nation for 40 days, beginning September 27 and ending on the day of the election. Pages have also been created on Facebook, urging people to pray, not for any particular candidate, but for the president elect and for our country. I clicked “like” on one page and agreed to pray for the 40 days. Our church is also encouraging its congregation to pray likewise.
I was, however, shocked at the hateful posts that have appeared on the Facebook page I joined. Nonbelievers have attacked those who believe that prayer is the answer to our country’s problems. In the past, I was politically active. In addition to voting, I campaigned wholeheartedly. While there is nothing wrong with becoming involved in the political process, it left a bad taste in my mouth. That was more than 15 years ago. However, one thing I have learned from those experiences is that no matter who wins the November election, God is still in charge.
Following is a list I received in 2008 before the last presidential election. I think it is worth sharing again.
Top 10 Predictions (No Matter Who Wins the Election)
1. The Bible will still have all the answers.
2. Prayer will still work.
3. The Holy Spirit will still move.
4. God will still inhabit the praises of His people.
5. There will still be God-anointed preaching.
6. There will still be singing of praise to God.
7. God will still pour out blessings upon His people.
8. There will still be room at the Cross.
9. Jesus will still love you.
10. Jesus will still save the lost.
We are a lost people. Only God can save our country, a country that has turned away from its Christian roots and is in rapid decline. However, while some are in despair, afraid for their future, those of us who trust in the Lord have the blessed assurance that no matter who wins the election, God is still in control.
As people of faith, we must pray fervently, seeking His face and humbling ourselves before Him. Prayer may not change the outcome of the election nor change people’s attitudes; however, it will change the one who prays.
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