Thomas Jefferson is thought to have said, “The price of liberty is eternal vigilance.”
Now that the midterm elections are behind us, it’s easy to accept the myth that there’s not much to do. The reality is, we must remain vigilant, even in so-called “off-years.” Freedom is too precious a gift for us to wait until the next national election to defend it.
Let’s renew our resolve the best way I know how . . . on our knees before our Sovereign King and gracious Heavenly Father. Will you join me? Each prayer point will include an action step. Should you be led to pursue some of these steps, links to further information or a resource to help you are included.
Please join me in committing this year to God.
Heavenly Father,
We come to you as your beloved children. By your grace, we are forgiven and made holy through faith in your Son, Jesus, who died and rose again for our sins. You gave Him all authority in Heaven and on Earth. Empower us to go and make disciples of all nations, including our own. You have placed us here for such a time as this.
To
that end, we lift up the leaders in authority over us, from our President to
our school board. Thank you that in your sovereign will beyond our
comprehension, you have allowed them to be in authority. You have given them
the chance to seek and serve you, and we pray earnestly that they would seek
you and your wisdom with all their heart. (Acts 17:26-27)
We pray for Congress as it begins a new session. Let our members serve justly so that we may live quiet and peaceful lives, with freedom to serve you and share your gospel with others. (1 Timothy 2:1-4) Help us encourage our representatives and senators in righteousness, and urge them to oppose evil.
Likewise, we pray for our state legislatures. As they meet this year, they are discussing issues of life, death, religious liberty, education, election integrity, and other serious issues in our states. Give them wisdom. As their constituents, equip us to encourage them to stand for truth.
- Find out when your state legislature is meeting this year.
- Learn your legislator’s contact information by signing up for Pray For Leaders.
Father, we want to be good stewards of this blessing of liberty. Help us understand the eternal truths which guided our nation’s formation, so we may teach them to the next generation.
- Read the U.S. Constitution. Consider gifting a copy to a young person in your life.
Lord, we are concerned for our children and grandchildren. The Enemy calls to them through lies and false teachers. You call to them in truth. Let their parents, teachers, and school board members be instruments for good in their lives.
Forgive us, Lord, when we do not live according to the godly values we want to see in our nation. You have been so faithful to us, even when we have often failed you. Help us offer ourselves as a sacrifice of praise to you each day. (Romans 12:1) We want to seek your kingdom and righteousness first, commit our ways to you, and walk in faith and integrity. You will help us by your Spirit!
- Perhaps this is the year to commit to read through the entire Bible. I’m going through The Bible Recap with some ladies from my church.
Gracious Father, thank you that we only need to be faithful; we can leave the outcome in your hands. Through all the challenges this year brings, help us do our duty with our hope entirely fixed on you. You are our shield, our glory, and the lifter of our heads. (Psalm 3:3) May your name be praised above all!
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
