The Weekly Encourager – November 9, 2016 – Pray for our Nation

The people have spoken: the next president was elected yesterday. Whether or not we are happy with the outcome, we all should thank God that the transfer of power will happen in a peaceful orderly manner. The current president has already invited the president-elect to the White House to talk about effecting a smooth transition. Please do not take this for granted. Many people around the world long for such a system of government. Instead of an interminable monarchy or a bloody military coup, we have free and open elections. This is a huge blessing. “Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things....and the God of peace will be with you.” - Philippians 4:8

Now our work begins. Whether or not we voted for him, now we must honor him. “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment.” - Romans 13:1

Whether or not we voted for him, now we must pray for him. “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior.” - 1 Timothy 2:1-3

Here's what I'm praying today: Heavenly Father and Righteous King of the Cosmos, thank You for our nation and its system of government. Thank You for our long history of peaceful elections. Thank You for the many thousands of volunteers around the country who worked long hours at the polls to make our voting possible. Thank You for the passion of so many campaigners. We know that You call us to give thanks in all things, so we thank You for this man who will become our next president. Father, give him wisdom with humility. Help him to assemble the best possible team to act with integrity. Help him to select strong knowledgeable advisors who will help him make wise and just decisions. Wherever possible, place Your people in positions of leadership, and may the new president be open to Your truth, however it may reach him. Give this man a proper sense of his role in history and the high calling of leadership at home and abroad. May he act with humble grace and equity toward all people, regardless of political party, gender, race, age, education, wealth, or other distinctions. May every citizen's voice be heard. May he begin to build relationships with those whose views differ. May his work be productive and effective from the start. May his best qualities come forward and his worst ones recede. Lord, restore the people's confidence in our government. Show us the good, and let us be grateful.

Whether or not we voted for him, now we must heal as a nation. I challenge everyone reading this to find one other person who voted differently than you, and reach out in reconciliation. This is not a time to judge or to gloat, but to heal relationships. Not a time for bitterness, but betterment. “Seek peace and pursue it.” - Psalm 34:14 I am praying also for the candidate who lost this election, and all those who supported her. As Christians, may we be instruments of the Lord's peace in the coming days, weeks, and months. We have a wonderful opportunity to testify to the love of Christ. May the world know that we are Christians by our love.

God is faithful, so keep on praying!
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