Today in the United States is the National Day of Prayer. It is a day that many in our country gather specifically to pray. There are community events at public locations. There are national events involving politicians and other leaders.

In light of this, I want to ask you to join me in praying these four things today:

1. Let us pray for the good of our nation. By this, I don’t mean that we should pray for our nation to have the goods or to be blessed. Let us ask the Lord to make us a “Good Nation.” That our influence and our activities around the globe will be good for all.

2. Let us pray for the leaders of our nation. The Bible specifically commands us to pray for those in power. We need to pray for our political leaders, our school teachers, our pastors, and our community leaders.

3. Let us pray for the churches in our nation. The church must have a voice and a ministry that takes the gospel of Jesus to those in its community. Each community is different and the needs of the people are different. Let’s pray that the churches in our nation will have the courage to reach out to those who need our help. I want to challenge you, don't only pray for your church. Pray for the other churches in your community as well.

4. Let us pray for the people of our nation. Many around you are suffering. Many feel oppressed. Many are sick or wounded. Some are doing well, but a crisis is headed there way. Some have lost loved ones and some may even feel that life is not worth living. Let’s pray for each other today.

At some point today, ask God to give you the opportunity and the courage to share the saving love of God with someone who needs to know about it.

Want to know more about the National Day of Prayer? Here is the official website: http://www.nationaldayofprayer.org/