Home


National Day of Prayer

 

Is America In Need of Prayer?
  
By: James Sterling
  
(Troy, MI) – The National Day of Prayer is almost upon us -1st Thursday in May - and I have to ask myself one question, is America in need of prayer?
  
When I consider the fact that we live in ‘thee’ most richest country in the world; America has the best equipped military, best medical care, best schools and the list just goes on, c’mon does America really need our prayers!?
  
I contacted Lori Wagner for some answers.  Lori is the Detroit Area Coordinator for the Troy National Day of Prayer Task Force, whose group has the responsibility of scheduling the meeting at noon in front of City Hall to intercede in prayer for such as, “for America; especially for its leadership in the five primary centers of power: the church, education, family, government and media,” Below is our exchange of dialogue.
  
The United States is one of the richest countries in the world, so why would America need prayer?
  
Lori:  “We do have a wonderful standard of living in the United States. After traveling to impoverished nations, I’ve become even more thankful to live in America. I am concerned, however, that as our nation has prospered materially, we have lost out on the true riches. How many of our families have remained intact? Do our children feel secure? What about honesty, integrity, respect, loyalty, the sanctity of human life? These cannot be purchased no matter how affluent the society.”
  
If Churches are God’s houses of worship & prayer, and its members most likely pray for their leaders, why will the Troy National Day of Prayer Task Force be promoting prayers for Church leaders?
  
Lori:  “Light particles scattered throughout a room dispel darkness … but if you have these particles focused as one, like a laser, now you have a powerful tool. When we unite in prayer, there is a synergy that happens. Millions will join across the nation to pray on the National Day of Prayer. What an awesome potential for good. Our leaders need our prayers and support. They carry heavy weights upon their shoulders, and they need to know we care and appreciate them.”
  
The U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights guarantees America’s freedom of the press; the media exercises these rights with seemingly little constraint, so is it really necessary to pray for the media?
  
Lori:  “Yes! Journalists have tough jobs, and they are often forced into difficult and dangerous situations. They need God’s grace and strength to keep them from the many pitfalls and potential dangers of their profession. Personally, I pray for discernment for our news reporters, and that they would know and report unbiased truth without sensationalism and editorializing.
  
And we can’t forget that the media isn’t just the news, it includes television programming, radio, internet, etc. These are all wonderful assets when used properly, but they are also used to promote violence, drug use, pornography, infidelity, and the list goes on. Predators and thieves use the internet to prey on the unsuspecting... all good candidates for divine intervention.”
  
Troy schools goes without saying - that they are among the countries best schools- why do they need our prayers?
  
Lori:  “In our modern culture, it seems there are no absolutes transmitted to our kids. What can they hold on to? Without structure and boundaries, there is no security. Today’s young people need our prayers. They need to know that there are absolutes and values that make our lives worth living. In a world that says, “It’s all about me,” our kids need to know that there is no fulfillment in living out this motto. True happiness comes from serving others, from giving of yourself and being a part of something bigger than you are. If I was a teacher in the Troy school district, I would be so thankful to know that I was being upheld in prayer … that people were asking God to grant me wisdom, strength and sensitivity to meet the needs of those entrusted in my care.”
  
Lori concludes with:
  
 “One of the most important things that prayer does is to adjust our perspective. It’s not just asking God to move on our behalf: it’s also about being changed by Him so that we can affect our world.
  
The National Day of Prayer is a great opportunity for people to “get on the same page” spiritually. Reaching across denominational lines, acknowledging our dependence on Almighty God, and collectively beseeching Him on behalf of our families, communities, our nation and our world … that’s what the National Day of Prayer is about.”
  
Folks, does America need our prayers? Yes, indeed!
  
I thank Lori Wagner for taking the time to share with us some very good reasons to turn out on the 1st Thursday of May at Troy City Hall to pray for our country, our community and our precious children.

                                                  

Copyright © 2009                The Troy Beacon Offices Are Closed Holidays & Weekends