"The times are dark, the spirits of ruin are abroad in all their power, and the mercy of God alone can save us." Although these words were spoken by Abraham Lincoln in 1862, they are applicable to America today. As we continue to see our society decay, both spiritually and morally, many of us can't help but ask, "Is there hope for America?"

Following the collapse of the formidable Soviet Union, Americans breathed a collective sigh of relief. Finally, or so it seemed, our nation was safe. Of course, we still have conflicts and tension with other nations, but the greatest threat to America today is from within our own borders. We have forgotten our spiritual heritage and have neglected the God Who so graciously, and often miraculously, guided our nation and its leaders through so many difficulties. So why should we participate in the National Day of Prayer? After all, isn't America beyond help? Is it too late to get on our knees in prayer for our nation?

It is important to keep in mind that the primary reason we are to pray for our nation and its leaders is because God, in His word, commands us to. In 1 Timothy 2:1-3 the Apostle Paul urges believers to lift up "requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving" for everyone, especially for "kings and all those in authority."

Interestingly enough, when Paul wrote this letter to Timothy, the Christian church was suffering severe persecution under the rule of Nero. Notice that Paul did not instruct believers to curse Nero, but to pray for him and others in authority. In Romans 13:1-8, Paul recognized that all authority figures and government leaders ultimately are in power by the will of God.

Certainly, there are instances when we are to "obey God rather than men" (Acts 5:29), especially if we are asked to participate in something that will directly violate our beliefs as Christians. However, we need to keep in mind that our leaders do not obtain their positions by chance, but are allowed by God in His infinite wisdom and sovereignty to hold their places of leadership.

Another reason we are to lift up our nation and leaders is because God answers the prayers of His people. The often quoted passage of 2 Chronicles 7:14 bears repeating: "If My people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land." How can God answer our prayers if we have no prayers to offer? If, as God's people, we will not intercede for our nation, then there is no reason for God to withhold His judgment.

In addition, our leaders are under tremendous pressure Each day they face numerous tasks that require their attention and they are expected to make the right decisions. With so many burdens to carry and choices to make, it is often difficult to approach legislation and other matters with a clear head. Our leaders need our prayers and they need to know they are being supported in prayer.

Moreover, by taking time to pray for our nation and its leaders, believers will be rewarded with personal spiritual growth in their prayer lives. In coming before the Lord on behalf of our nation with true humility and repentance, we begin to experience a strengthening of our relationship with God. Prayer, in essence, is conversation with God. It is one of the most important ways we can spend time with Him and He will reward our desire to seek His face.

Finally, let us return to 1 Timothy 2, where Paul reveals another reason we are to pray for our leaders: ". … that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness" (v. 2). This reason is simple enough. By praying for our leaders, we are expressing our faith in God to guide their decisions and, consequently, implement policy. Righteous decisions will lead to godly laws and peaceful living conditions.

These are some of the reasons we should participate in the National Day of Prayer. They are reasons rooted in God's Word. We are in a battle for the heart and soul of America. It is no accident that believers are referred to as "soldiers" in the Bible. We are at war— not with another nation, but with "spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms" (Ephesians 6:12). Soldiers not only defend their positions, but when asked, take the offensive. It is time we took the offensive by praying for our nation.

Copyright © 2001 by the author or Christianity Today, Inc. For reprint information call 630-260-6200. Taken from "Prayer Lines," the official newsletter of the National Day of Prayer. Used by permission.

Visit the National Day of Prayer Website at http://www.nationaldayofprayer.org.