November 2020

 
I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.
1 Timothy 2:1-3 (NIV)
 
I am writing this the day before Election Day 2020. Over 95 million Americans have already cast their ballots, me included. Very soon we will hear the first results of what has been the most expensive (over $14 billion) and perhaps the most divisive election cycle in modern history.
 
For the last several weeks, we have been in a 30-Day Challenge to Pray for our Elections. Although the Challenge lasts through November 3, it appears we will need a LOT of prayer after that too. With a record number of mail-in votes, many pundits have warned the results of crucial races may not be known for some time, including the presidential race.  
 
In this tension-filled and highly unstable time, it is more crucial than ever for those who name the name of Christ to lead with love. Political discussions do not give Christians a pass to say or post mean-spirited, defamatory comments about the political figure or party with whom they disagree. Free speech comes with responsibility, especially for those who follow Christ. We are free to support the candidate of our choice. We are not free to insult and disparage those with different convictions or their supporters – no matter who else is doing it.
 
We believe at our core that all people are created by God and have sacred worth. Jesus’ command to “Love your neighbor as yourself” extends to Democrats, Republicans, and Independents of all types. By all means, we should hold our convictions and advocate for them fully, but always do so with grace, valuing the person with whom we disagree more than winning the argument.
 
Our ultimate goal is never to win a political dispute in the moment. It is to win a person to Christ forever. In a social media world, we must be mindful of the impact of our words before we hit “send.” Nothing can undermine our witness faster. While political arguments change with the wind, that one post can live forever.    
 
Instead of conforming to the world around us, let’s show how we have been transformed by the renewing of our minds. Imagine the impact we could have if we lived out these Scriptures in the days ahead.
  
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Ephesians 4:29-30 (NIV)
 
Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Philippians 1:27 (NIV)

Praying with you and for our leaders,
Roger
 
P.S. For encouragement, you can receive a weekly Prayer Text by texting KINGDOM to 573-227-6557.
 
As our country and world continue to battle COVID-19, we are painfully aware of the racial and ethnic injustices that plague our national character. We have much to bring before God.                                                   

Feel free to pray for a different area each day. Thanks for praying!                                                                                                                                       

• SUNDAY:  REPENTANCE & SALVATION- Pray that as we humble ourselves and seek God’s face and turn from our wicked ways, God will release healing, salvation, and justice across our nation and world (2 Chron 7:14). By faith, see the people of God, the church, standing in the gap for the sick, the oppressed, the hurting, the lost, and the lonely. Lord, multiply your Kingdom through us.                                                                                       
• MONDAY:  PEACE- Pray for God’s perfect love to cast out all spirits of division, suspicion, anxiety and panic that threaten our communities and sense of community.                                                                                                    
• TUESDAY:  LEADERSHIP- Invite the Holy Spirit to work in and among us for a free and fair election on Nov. 3 and a peaceful acceptance of the results.                                                                                                                      
• WEDNESDAY:  JUSTICE- Pray for justice to roll down like waters and right living like an ever-flowing stream (Amos 5:24), so we may repent of racism and overcome the evil powers of this world with good.                                                                                                       
• THURSDAY:  RESOURCES- Pray for sufficient human & medical resources for our healthcare systems as well as necessary resources for all other sectors (i.e. financial) and institutions (i.e. schools, churches, local government).                                                                                                              
• FRIDAY:  PROTECTION- Claim the blood of Jesus as a shield and healing over people and institutions (esp. Schools and Universities right now) as well as all first responders and medical personnel in the battle against COVID-19. Please seek God for full healing for the several UM pastors and laypersons in Missouri in a severe battle with COVID.                                                                                                    
• SATURDAY:  RESEARCH- Pray for all types of researchers to develop an effective, affordable, and safe COVID-19 treatment and vaccine.                                                                                                    
• (Some prayers adapted from Rev. Dr. Peter Bellini, a United Methodist Pastor and Professor at United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio, https://davidfwatson.me/2020/03/14/10-guidelines-for-prayer-in-these-covid-19-times-by-dr-peter-bellini/)