A Prayer for Our Nation (adapted from Daniel 9)

"I, Daniel, understood from the Scriptures, according to the word of the Lord given to Jeremiah the prophet, that the desolation of Jerusalem would last seventy years. So I turned to the Lord God and pleaded with him in prayer and petition." Daniel 9:2, 3

Daniel offered this prayer in recognition that his people were scattered and judged because of disobedience. He knew the only resolution was God's mercy. We face similar trials and judgments today in our country. Will we remain stubborn? Or, will we humble ourselves and let God restore us?

Lord, great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with those who love you and keep your commandments, we have sinned and done wrong. We have been wicked and have rebelled; we have turned away from your commands and laws. We have not listened to your pastors and teachers, who spoke in your name to our political leaders, our ancestors, and to all the people of this country.
Lord, you are righteous, but today we are covered with shame—because of our unfaithfulness to you. Even so, You Lord, our God, are merciful and forgiving. Our entire nation has transgressed your law and turned away, refusing to obey you. Therefore the curses and sworn judgments written in the Law of Moses have been poured out on us. You have fulfilled the words spoken against us and against our rulers by bringing on us chaos and violence. Still, we have not sought your favor by turning from our sins and giving attention to your truth. 
Now, Lord our God, who brought your people out of Egypt with a mighty hand and who made for yourself a name that endures to this day, we have sinned, we have done wrong.  Our sins and the iniquities of our ancestors have made your church and your people an object of scorn to all those around us. Lord, in keeping with all your righteous acts, turn away your anger and your wrath from our country and your church.
Now, our God, hear the prayers and petitions of your servant. For your sake, Lord, look with favor on your desolate people. Give ear, our God, and hear; open your eyes and see the desolation of the nation and church that has faithfully served you in the past. We do not make requests of you because we are righteous, but because of your great mercy.  Lord, listen! Lord, forgive! Lord, hear and act! For your sake, my God, do not delay, because your church and your people bear your Name.”

 While he was still praying, the Angel Gabriel came to him and said "As soon as you began to pray, a word went out, which I have come to tell you". God's response began in real time! As believers, let's humble ourselves and pray...as Daniel did. Perhaps God, in His mercy, will answer as quickly.

Live boldly out there today...