Prayer Comes First

by Victor Pioli

Did you know that congress had dedicated the first Thursday of May as a day of prayer? As a nation we are indeed called to pray. Psalm 89:15 says, "How blessed the nation that learns to acclaim you." Isn't it wonderful that the Lord of Hosts asked us to pray for our nation? Prayer is exactly what this nation needs the most.

Are you still not convinced? Well, how about another scripture then? 1 Timothy 2:1 says, "I urge then, first of all that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving should be offered for everyone, for kings and others in authority, so that we may be able to libe peaceful and quiet lives with all devotion and propriety." Is this country living peacful and quietly? Just listening to a news broadcast will tell you the story.

While it is true that the news media may exaggerate a story to get your attention, it is also true that we are living in very troubled times. Crime is so high that congress just passed a 29 billion dollar crime bill!!! The true crime is that we will spend so much money and not solve our problems. Money can help a little, but we really need our country restored.

I have another scripture for you. Listen carefully. (I know you are reading this, but allow your heart to listen.) In 2 Chronicles, 7:14 it says, "If my people who bear my name humble themselves and pray and seek my presences and turn from their wicked ways, then I will listen from Heaven and forgive their sins and restore their country." Get that? Praise God He can actually restore our country. Praise You Jesus! Will you pray with me now as you read this?

"Lord Jesus we praise you and bless you and humble ourselves before you. We ask you to forgive our sins. We also ask for your grace and mercy to be poured on our nation's leadership. Heal them, guide them, and bring them to everlasting life. We pray for family life in America, which has been struck down by our commn enemy, Satan. Deliver us from all evil Lord Jesus. We pray for the poor, the homeless, the widows and widowers, and the children; not just in America, but also throughout the world. Stir into flame the love you have for us, so that we may share it with a hurting world. We say this prayer in Jesus' name, Amen."

May God bless each and every one of you. And remember to keep praying. Don't stop until the Lord comes.

Printed in the May 1994 issue of the "Living Water." Published for the Charismatic Renewal in the Diocese of San Jose, California. Permission to copy is granted, as long as proper credit is given.