The Weekly Encourager – July 4, 2013 – Pray for Our Country

Here is a prayer for our nation on Independence Day. Some have attributed the prayer to President Thomas Jefferson, while others say that it's from the 1928 Book of Common Prayer, possibly written by George Lyman Locke (1835-1919), a Rhode Island minister. No matter the author, it's still worthy of our consideration. All our sincere prayers are assisted by Jesus Christ, who sits next to the Father on the Royal Throne of Heaven. Although, as Americans, we celebrate independence from tyranny, as Christians, we rejoice in dependence upon the Lord for life, liberty, and all good things. 

Almighty God, Who has given us this good land for our heritage; We humbly beseech Thee that we may always prove ourselves a people mindful of Thy favor and glad to do Thy will. Bless our land with honorable ministry, sound learning, and pure manners.

Save us from violence, discord, and confusion, from pride and arrogance, and from every evil way. Defend our liberties, and fashion into one united people the multitude brought hither out of many kindreds and tongues.

Endow with Thy spirit of wisdom those to whom in Thy Name we entrust the authority of government, that there may be justice and peace at home, and that through obedience to Thy law, we may show forth Thy praise among the nations of the earth.

In time of prosperity fill our hearts with thankfulness, and in the day of trouble, suffer not our trust in Thee to fail; all of which we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.