First Notes: Five Ways to Pray for Our Nation

Dear First Baptist Family,

Any given day can bring such a range of emotions. Some days we’re overjoyed by good news. Other days our hearts are heavy by circumstances that seem beyond our control. Most days are a mixture. Life’s troubles and delights come together. 

For my part, there are many joys to celebrate. I love our church. I love seeing some of the young people beginning to engage with our fellowship. I love the way that our church is reaching out. 

I also delight in Jen, my children, wonderful ministry colleagues, and friends that make life so sweet.

On the other hand, my heart was really heavy last week for our country. The death of Charlie Kirk is not unique, as there have been other instances of political violence escalating in the last few years on both sides of the aisle. But I can't help but think that we are seeing a new level of civic engagement, where people think that some violence is necessary. 

We have to say clearly together that all violence, including political violence, is not the way of Jesus. He told Peter to put away the sword rather than arming himself for a revolution. His kingdom is a kingdom of truth founded on love.  

Some people feel called to act in times like this, and that can be a faithful response. You can join the efforts of a nonprofit or the efforts of people in our community to stem violence. Or you can volunteer to work with at-risk youth. 

All Christians are called to pray. 

How can we pray for our nation in a time like this? Here are five ways.

God, forgive us. We need to acknowledge that the state of America is in crisis. Families are hurting. Some neighborhoods are safer than others. We can pray, "Lord, forgive us when we wander far from you. Forgive us as Christians for being complacent sometimes or turning a blind eye to need. Forgive us when our entertainment and media seems so divisive and saturated with content and messages that are far from your heart.” 

God, deliver us. God is a great deliverer. God sees the suffering around us and loves to answer the prayers of those who grieve. I believe that we need deliverance from the spirit that has enveloped our nation. I know God can do it. 

God, heal us. The promise of 2 Chronicles 7:14, while spoken in a different context, is still relevant today: “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.” This is the only land we have, and we all have to share it. We need healing. Fortunately, God is a great healer. 

God, save us. God can save us when we can't save ourselves. Psalm 68:10 says, "Our God is a God who saves; He is the Lord.” How God brings about salvation can be miraculous, or it can happen quietly and over time. We must continue to pray that God raises up peacemaking, humble, moral leaders and commit ourselves to living as Jesus would live in America. 

Maybe the best prayer we can pray is God, change us. Help us to be better. Help us to be more like Christ. Help us to yearn for the good and never celebrate the evil. 

I know I say it often, but I'm glad to be on the journey with you. I'm glad to know that we are a praying congregation as we learn how to love one another. I'd love to hear from you if you have thoughts or just want to talk about how you're feeling. 

With love,

Pastor Brent McDougal