Three days ago we witnessed the inauguration of Donald Trump, 45th President of the United States. No matter what side of the political fence you are on, as Christians we are called to pray for our leaders. Franklin Graham, son of Billy Graham quoted from Timothy:

I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. (I Timothy 2:1-2). 

For the last eight years, I have been praying for past President Obama and his family. As Christians, we have the privilege of doing so. Franklin Graham reminds us of Proverbs 21:1 that God can turn the hearts of kings. Reminding us of the heavy weight of responsibility the President has, we as Christians must pray. We believe that God is in control and He hears our prayers. He is faithful.

We are used to saying and hearing:

GOD BLESS AMERICA! 

But the other day I saw a bumper sticker that said:

AMERICA BLESS GOD! 

Pondering this, I am reminded that we are called not only to pray for our leaders, but we are called to be thankful to God for the blessings and benefits we have in this country:

Bless the Lord, o my soul, and forget none of His benefits; who pardons all your iniquities, who heals all your diseases; who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with loving kindness and compassion…( Psalm 103:3)

As we begin this new year, let us heed the call to pray and let us never forget the freedoms we have in this country including the freedom to pray.

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