1952: On April 17 a bill initiated by Mr. Conrad Hilton of Hilton Hotels and Senator Frank Carlson of Kansas was passed (Public Law 82-324) that the President of the United States was to set aside an appropriate day each year, other than Sunday, as a National Day of Prayer.

1974: The National Prayer Committee begins as a subcommittee on prayer at the International Congress on World Evangelization held in Lausanne, Switzerland in 1974. Out of the Lausanne gathering came the U.S. Lausanne Committee, now Mission America, and America’s National Prayer Committee.  Mrs. Vonette Bright was appointed to the Prayer Advisory Group.

1976: The first members are selected for the Prayer Advisory Group: Dr. Dick Eastman, Mr. Frank Insen (World Vision), Millie Dienert, Evelyn Christenson and Vonette Bright. Dr. Harold Lindsell of Christianity Today also met regularly with the group at the Christian Embassy in Washington D.C.

1979: The National Prayer Committee is officially formed. Today there are 18 members on the NPC Executive Board. Federal EIN: 75-1914068, Exempt 501 C3.

1981: Businessman Joe Mays (Religious Heritage of America), David Bryant and the NPC group meet to cast the first vision for the National Day of Prayer. Contacts were made with the Public Liaison office of the White House to begin planning efforts.

1983: The first National Day of Prayer observance, organized by the NPC, takes place at Constitution Hall in Washington D.C. with featured speakers Vice President George Bush and Dr. Lloyd Ogilvie.

1986:  Vonette Bright and the National Prayer Committee contact Senator Strom Thurmond (R) for guidance on writing a bill that would designate a day for the National Day of Prayer.

1987: Senator Thurmond writes the bill then introduces it to the Senate Judicial Committee. It became bill S.1378, which would amend public law 82-324.

In total, 13 Senators and 90 Congressmen signed giving their endorsements. The following individuals sponsored the bill:

• Congressman Tony Hall (D-Ohio)

• Congressman Carlos Moorhead (R-California)

• Senator Howard Heflin (D-Alabama)

• Senator Strom Thurmond (R-South Carolina)

• Senator Bill Armstrong (R-Colorado)

• Congressman Frank Wolf (R-Virginia)

• Congressman Bob Garcia (D-New York)

1988: Rabbi Haberman and Rabbi Tanenbaum express their support of the bill.

1988: Monday, May 5 – the Judiciary Committee in the Senate and the Committee on the Post Office and Civil Service in the House each release the bill for vote.

1988: Wednesday, May 7– 4:00 p.m. final confirmation is given that the bill passes unanimously in the Senate (a few days later in the House).

1988: Thursday, May 8 – Ronald Reagan signs into law Public Law 100-307 the designation of the first Thursday in May as the annual observance for the National Day of Prayer.

Those present at the signing:

• President Ronald Reagan

• Vonette Bright

• Pat Boone (then Co-Chair of the NPC)

• Susan Sorensen (National Coordinator)

• Tony Hall (D-Ohio)

• Frank Wolf (R-Virginia)

• Dr. Richard Halverson (Senate Chaplain)

• William Ford (House Chaplain)

• Senator Howard Heflin (D)

• Rabbi Joshua Haberman

• Father John O’Connor

• Dr. Jerry C. Nims (National Advisor)

• Gladys Harrington (Year of the Bible)

1989: The NPC forms an Official Task Force for organizing events across the country in observance of the National Day of Prayer.

1991: Shirley Dobson accepts the role as Chairman of the NDP Task Force.

1998: Pub. L. 105-225, August 12, 1998, 112 Stat. 1258: The President shall issue each year a proclamation designating the first Thursday in May as a National Day of Prayer on which the people of the United States may turn to God in prayer and meditation at churches, in groups, and as individuals. This law was signed by President Clinton.

2016: Millions will observe the 65th Anniversary of the National Day of Prayer.

The mission of the National Day of Prayer Task Force is: "Centered on the Lord Jesus Christ, the National Day of Prayer Task Force exists to mobilize unified public and personal prayer for America."

Click here to view the Historical Timeline of the National Day of Prayer

The National Day of Prayer is an annual observance held on the first Thursday of May, inviting people of all faiths to pray for the nation. It was created in 1952 by a joint resolution of the United States Congress, and signed into law by President Harry S. Truman. Our Task Force is a privately funded organization whose purpose is to encourage participation on the National Day of Prayer. It exists to communicate with every individual the need for personal repentance and prayer, to create appropriate materials, and to mobilize the Christian community to intercede for America’s leaders and its families. The Task Force represents a Judeo Christian expression of the national observance, based on our understanding that this country was birthed in prayer and in reverence for the God of the Bible.

Significance of the National Day of Prayer

The National Day of Prayer has great significance for us as a nation as it enables us to recall and to teach the way in which our founding fathers sought the wisdom of God when faced with critical decisions. It stands as a call for us to humbly come before God, seeking His guidance for our leaders and His grace upon us as a people. The unanimous passage of the bill establishing the National Day of Prayer as an annual event, signifies that prayer is as important to our nation today as it was in the beginning.

Like Thanksgiving or Christmas, this day has become a national observance placed on all Hallmark calendars and observed annually across the nation and in Washington, D.C. Every year, local, state, and federal observances were held from sunrise in Maine to sunset in Hawaii, uniting Americans from all socio-economic, political and ethnic backgrounds in prayer for our nation. It is estimated that over two million people attended more than 30,000 observances - organized by approximately 40,000 volunteers. At state capitols, county court houses, on the steps of city halls, and in schools, businesses, churches and homes, people stopped their activities and gathered for prayer.

The National Day of Prayer is Ours

The National Day of Prayer belongs to all Americans. It is a day that transcends differences, bringing together citizens from all backgrounds. Mrs. Shirley Dobson, NDP chairman, reminds us: "We have lost many of our freedoms in America because we have been asleep. I feel if we do not become involved and support the annual National Day of Prayer, we could end up forfeiting this freedom, too."

Historical Summary

• 1775 – The first Continental Congress calls for a National Day of Prayer and Fasting.
• 1863 – Abraham Lincoln calls for a National Day of Prayer.
• 1952 – Harry S. Truman declares a National Day of Prayer and signs into law an annual observance there of – United States Congress passed Joint Resolution 382 on April 17, 1952/ President Truman signs Public Law 82-324 (Public Law 82-324; 66 Stat. 64—April 17, 1952).
• 1988 – Ronald Reagan signs into law the designation of the first Thursday in May as the annual observance for the National Day of Prayer  – President Reagan signs Public Law 100-307 January 25, 1988, in the Second Session of the One Hundredth Congress (Public Law 100-307—May 5, 1988).
• 1998 – Pub. L. 105-225, August 12, 1998, 112 Stat. 1258: The President shall issue each year a proclamation designating the first Thursday in May as a National Day of Prayer on which the people of the United States may turn to God in prayer and meditation at churches, in groups, and as individuals. This law was signed by President Clinton.

Fun Facts

1. There have been 143 national calls to prayer, humiliation, fasting and thanksgiving by the President of the United States (1789-2014).
2. There have been 66 Presidential Proclamations for a National Day of Prayer (1952-2014). Gerald R. Ford (1976), George H. Bush (1989-91) and Barack H. Obama (2012) are the only U.S. Presidents to sign multiple National Day of Prayer Proclamations in the same year.
3. Every President since 1952 has signed a National Day of Prayer proclamation.
4. 34 of the 44 U.S. Presidents have signed proclamations for National Prayer. Three of the Presidents who did not sign a proclamation died while serving in office. Two Presidents, not included in the count – William Howard Taft and Warren Gamaliel Harding, signed proclamations for Thanksgiving and Prayer.
5. Records indicate there have been 1,419 state and federal calls for national prayer since 1775 and counting.

 

 

STATE COORDINATOR

VACANT

Please contact the National Area Leaders

State Population: 11.5 million

2021 State Prayer Proclamation: OH Gov Proc 2021

 

Regional Coordinator

Paul Hamrick

• 419-771-9378

• Click here to email Paul

 
NATIONAL AREA LEADER

Fallon and Kenya Procter

• East Region (Washington D.C., Delaware, Maryland, North Carolina, Ohio, Virginia, and West Virginia)

• Fallon: 910-316-8057

• Kenya: 910-551-4688

• Click here to email Fallon and Kenya Procter

Only the State Coordinator and National Area Leaders are listed in this directory. However, there are 7 volunteer positions within each state. To read the job descriptions and apply for a position in this state, click here.

Remember – you can volunteer as a prayer coordinator for your own church or community so it is easy to get involved.

STEP 1 – GOD’S PURPOSE: Peace and Life

The Bible Says…“…we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 5:1“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” John 3:16“…I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” John 10:10b

Since God planned for us to have peace and the abundant life right now, why are most people not having this experience?

STEPS…
God’s Purpose: Peace & Life Our Problem: Separation God’s Remedy: The Cross God’s Provision: Jesus Christ – God’s Assurance: His Word – God’s Plan: Get Started

STEP 2 – OUR PROBLEM: Separation

God created us in His own image to have an abundant life. He did not make us as robots to automatically love and obey Him, but gave us a will and a freedom of choice.We chose to disobey God and go our own willful way. We still make this choice today. This results in separation from God. 

The Bible Says…
“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 6:23

Our choice results in separation from God.

The Bible Says…
“There is a way that seems right to man, but in the end it leads to death.” Proverbs 14:12

“But your iniquities have separated you from your God; and your sins have hidden His face from you, so that He will not hear.” Isaiah 59:2

There is only one remedy for this problem of separation…

STEP 3 – GOD’S REMEDY: The Cross

Jesus Christ is the only answer to this problem. He died on the cross and rose from the grave, paying the penalty for our sin and bridging the gap between God and people.

The Bible Says…
“…God is on one side and all the people on the other side, and Christ Jesus, Himself man, is between them to bring them together…” 1 Timothy 2:5

“For Christ also has suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God…” 1 Peter 3:18a

“But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8

God has provided the only way…

We must make the choice…

 STEP 4 – GOD’S PROVISION: Jesus Christ

We must trust Jesus Christ and receive Him by personal invitation.
 

The Bible Says…
“But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name.” John 1:12

“…if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9

Where are you at Right Now?

Is there any good reason why you cannot receive Jesus Christ right now?

HOW TO RECEIVE CHRIST…

1. Admit your need (I am a sinner).
2. Be willing to turn from your sins (repent).
3. Believe that Jesus Christ died for you on the cross and rose from the grave.
4. Through prayer, invite Jesus Christ to come in and control your life through the Holy Spirit. (Receive Him as Lord and Savior.)

What to pray…

Dear Lord Jesus,

I know that I am a sinner and need Your forgiveness. I believe that You died for my sins. I want to turn from my sins. I now invite You to come into my heart and life. I want to trust and follow You as Lord and Savior.

In Jesus’ name,  Amen.

STEP 5 – GOD’S ASSURANCE: His Word

If you prayed the prayer above, the Bible says…
“For ‘whoever calls upon the name of the Lord will be saved.’” Romans 10:13

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast.” Ephesians 2:8,9

Did you sincerely ask Jesus Christ to come into your life? Where is He right now? What has He given you?

The Bible Says…
“He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life. These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may continue to believe in the name of the Son of God.” 1 John 5:12,13 (NKJV)

Receiving Christ , we are born into God’s family through the supernatural work of the Holy Spirit who indwells every believer… this is called regeneration or the “new birth.

 

STEP 6 – GOD’S PLAN: Get Started

This is just the beginning of a wonderful new life in Christ. To deepen this relationship you should:

1. Read your Bible every day to know Christ better.
2. Talk to God in prayer every day.
3. Tell others about Christ.
4. Worship, fellowship, and serve with other Christians in a church where Christ is preached.
5. As Christ’s representative in a needy world, demonstrate your new life by your love and concern for others.

May God richly bless you in your new faith…

Welcome to the family of God!

If you still have questions, then click here to talk with someone now

"When the foundations are being destroyed, what can the righteous do?" —Psalms 11:3

I believe our nation is in trouble today, probably more than I've seen in my lifetime. We are contending with issues that are causing the very foundation of our country to crumble. Our moral and spiritual roots are eroding, the economy is misleading, family life is disintegrating, and political forces are at unprecedented odds. There seem to be very few leaders who will take a stand for God and for His Word.

It can be tempting to believe that America has reached a point of no return. While these factors cause despair, we are reminded in Scripture that with God, nothing is impossible. No problem is too great for Him. Seasons of distress and uncertainty and hardship call for faithful, fervent prayer by God's people and remind us of our responsibility to humble ourselves before Almighty God. We cannot expect healing to come to our nation apart from obedience to God through His Holy Word.

God longs for His people to humble themselves and to seek forgiveness and pray for guidance. God's Word says, "Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord" (Psalm 33:12). The Bible commands that we repent of our sins and turn to Almighty God. And because we are confident that we serve a God of mercy and compassion, we know that He stands ready to respond to our cries out of the abundance of His divine wisdom.

It is a crucial time for us to individually and collectively seek God's divine intervention for the challenges facing us. We need to pray not only for our nation, but we need to pray for our leaders, for all those who govern us, that they will turn to God with humble hearts and follow Him. Our military leaders need our prayers as we have dedicated men and women serving on battlefields and sacrificing their blood to protect our nation and many innocent people around the world. God is faithful to bless those who turn to Him.

Pray that as a nation we would return to God. As we call on God, let us do so by genuine faith, believing that He hears our prayers. God can heal this great land, for which our forefathers fought and died. We need spiritual renewal, we need a revival in America, and we need each and everyone to pray. Lord, Hear Our Cry!  —Franklin Graham

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What you can do:

• Download this free prayer guide on how to pray for those in authority: 30 Ways to Pray Authority
• Download this free ELECTION PRAYER GUIDE
• Order your free 31-day prayer map/guide for the United States from Every Home for Christ
• Special thanks to our friends at Intercessors for America for the prayer guides. Learn more at ifapray.org

Other Resources:

• Download a Family Prayer Guide
• Download a Free Curriculum from Gospel Light on Prayer
• Download a Youth Group Prayer Guide and a Prayer Guide Series from Dr. Henry Blackaby
• 30-day prayer guide covering all the spheres of leadership
• Pray for Education in America
• Pray for Media and Entertainment in America

"I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone – for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness." —I Timothy 2:1-2

Welcome! We look forward to seeing you soon!

Below you will find the RSVP Form for the upcoming Prayer Gathering in Dallas, Texas, hosted by Mr. and Mrs. William Quest.

• 
  When: Tuesday, February 17, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.


• 
  Where: 5609 Ursula Lane, Dallas, Texas 75229


• 
  Featuring: Rosalinda Baron, Director of Development, National Day of Prayer Task Force


• 
  Topic: "How Prayer Can Make the Difference in You, Your City and America"


• Seating is limited so RSVP today.


• 
  Questions: Please contact Rosalinda at [email protected] or 719-235-8685

[highlight]Please complete the RSVP form below for yourself and again for each of your guests.[/highlight][hr]

Welcome! We look forward to seeing you soon!

Below you will find the RSVP Form for the upcoming Prayer Gathering in Woodworth, Louisiana, hosted by Mr. and Mrs. James Pate.

• 
  When: Thursday, March 5, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.


• 
  Where: 2430 Coulee Crossing Road, Woodworth, LA, 71485


• 
  Featuring: Rosalinda Baron, Director of Development, National Day of Prayer Task Force


• 
  Topic: "How Prayer Can Make the Difference in You, Your City and America"


• Seating is limited so RSVP today.


• 
  Questions: Please contact Rosalinda at [email protected] or 719-235-8685

[highlight]Please complete the RSVP form below for yourself and again for each of your guests.[/highlight][hr]

“I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone – for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” —I Timothy 2:1-2
 

On the First Thursday in May, the National Day of Prayer (NDP) will take place and millions of Americans will unite at more than 50,000 locations from coast to coast to pray. 

So, this begs the question; does prayer work? After all, why would millions of people stop what they are doing, gather together and then speak into the air or in the thought recesses of their minds with some expectation that things are really going to change? Is there truly someone listening who can do anything about the current state of affairs in our homes, work places, communities or even our nation? Our leaders have called for National Days of Prayer since 1775, so where is all the change these people have been crying out to God for?

Before we can talk about whether or not prayer makes a difference in our nation, we have to first address prayer for what it is and if it is making a difference in our personal lives. So, let’s jump into one of the greatest theological questions of all time. It was the disciples who inquired first, so you are not alone. While Jesus was praying he was asked, “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John (known as John the Baptist) taught his disciples” (Luke 11:1). They could have asked him anything. They could have asked, “Lord, teach us how to turn water into wine” or “Lord, teach us to raise the dead”. No, they asked him how to pray and what he did was teach them how to build a personal relationship with God. Then and only then could they be ready to learn how to pray as a group with an understanding of what a solemn assembly was all about.

Jennifer Kennedy Dean states, “Prayer is an interchange of love between the Father and His child. That desire you feel to pray is His love drawing you to delight in Him. You only need to respond.”¹ For Christians, prayer (proseuche in Greek) is “communion with God.” It is the medium of divine revelation. Through prayer, we actually experience relationship with God. The quality of our prayer life then determines the quality of our relationship with God.

Prayer is talking with God and listening to Him, and it is enjoying the presence of God. In his book, Prayer on Fire, Fred Hartley describes prayer as, “What we do. It is our initiative to meet God, whether we are asking for favors, singing in celebration, or crying out in distress. Regardless of what shape or size it comes in, prayer is our effort to engage God.”² Prayer can take many forms, including worship, confession, thanksgiving, praise, petition (asking for what we need and desire), waiting (silent listening and sensing of God), and warfare (command).³ As believers, we can pray in the Spirit—even in language that may be unknown to us but is fully known to God (1 Cor 14:2, 27–28; Romans 8).

Our goal through prayer must be to know God better, to experience the fullness of relationship with Him. Through prayer, we honor Him. We give something back to the Almighty, something He desires greatly. God reveals Himself to us in the “prayer closet”—a quiet place where we cannot be distracted in our time with Him.

God desires relationship, but for many years I was preoccupied with works. Not only that, I was preoccupied with self. When I prayed, it was a preconceived line of thought followed by a list of needs and I was often impatient for results. In my mind, God needed to provide fast results, and if one prayer was not sufficient, I took measures into my own hands. Hey, at least I gave God a chance to perform, and then I did what any good Christian should do, right? But I was still missing the point.

The Apostle Paul tells us in Philippians 3:10,

[For my determined purpose is] that I may know Him [that I may progressively become more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him, perceiving and recognizing and understanding the wonders of His Person more strongly and more clearly], and that I may in that same way come to know the power outflowing from His resurrection [which it exerts over believers], and that I may so share His sufferings as to be continually transformed [in spirit into His likeness even] to His death. (amp)

And in Ephesians 1:17, he wrote, “I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better.” Paul got it. And he wasn’t alone. Enoch, the great-grandfather of Noah, had such a deep relationship with God that one day God just took him to heaven (Gen 5:22–23). Later, Elijah, who lived every day in wholehearted devotion to the Father, was escorted to heaven in a chariot of fire. That must have been an incredible sight.

Throughout time, God has opened Himself up to men and women to initiate friendship. Friends with the Almighty—what a concept! In Ten Prayers God Always Says Yes To, DeStefano states,

The fact is that we have a God who loves to communicate. And the reason is that communication is the starting point for any relationship. Everyone has heard it said that God wants to be able to have a relationship with us. There is no truer point in all theology. Indeed, the thrust of God’s communication with mankind over the course of history has always been relational and not conceptual. That’s why he actually prefers it when we come to have faith in him through prayer, instead of through logical arguments alone. God doesn’t just want to satisfy a curiosity we have, He wants to enter into a friendship with us.⁴

If you knew that ours was the last generation before the coming of Christ, how would you live? When you stand before the throne of God, will you know Him intimately as your friend, or will you be a stranger? Are you going through the routine of your Christian walk without experiencing friendship with Elohim? Through Spirit-led prayer, your eyes will be opened, and you will have an indescribable relationship with God that is rich and fulfilling.

In Experiencing Prayer with Jesus, Dr. Henry Blackaby writes, “How deep is your relationship with the Lord as you pray? Do you pour your heart out to Him with complete confidence and trust in His help, because you’ve come to know and experience His love? It takes time, like any relationship. The more time you spend with Him, the more you’ll come to understand His ways, His heart, and His will as you pray.”⁵

Prayer is making a difference, transforming the landscape of homes and communities across the globe. A few years ago, Heritage Builders conducted an unofficial study of the American family to determine the factors that increased overall family health. What they discovered was truly incredible. A summary of their findings indicated that families who ate together at least four days a week and prayed at the dinner table showed the highest percentage of honor roll students and church-attending teenagers between the ages of 15 and 19.

A Lifeway Research survey estimates that 70 percent of Christian teens and young adults will walk away from the Church during college.⁶ But families that prayed together were among the 30 percent whose teenagers were more grounded in their faith.⁷ In the Lifeway survey, participants indicated that prayer was not just a part of religious practice; rather, it was the concerted effort of parents making sure that prayer was emphasized in daily living, not simply as a response to life’s trials and tribulations. Even secular universities agree that prayer makes a difference in relationships.

You may have heard the saying, “A couple that prays together, stays together.” Although we know this to be true, it is helpful to examine the evidence that best supports this common perception. An article published in the Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology had this to say about prayer:⁸ “There is some evidence that religiosity is similarly related to several positive relationship outcomes. Specifically, greater involvement in religious activities [including prayer] is related to higher levels of marital satisfaction … and marital stability with three longitudinal studies indicating that religiousness predicts lower risk of divorce and divorce proneness.” The report goes on to cite that “prayer may help couples to more often ‘think of the needs of others, be more loving and forgiving, treat each other with respect, and resolve conflict.’”⁹ The researchers suggest that the relationship people experience with God through prayer helps them handle their emotions, be more empathetic, become less self-focused, and gain greater skills in reconciliation. They also note that “prayer for the partner might prime partners to think about each other in more loving or compassionate terms and so treat each other with greater respect and sensitivity.”

Praying regularly together also “helped couples prevent conflict in their relationships.” Researchers note that couples who included “God in their marriage through prayer” were more skilled in problem solving and reconciliation. Other couples “reported that prayer alleviated tension and facilitated open communication during conflict.”

With this in mind, imagine what the action of prayer does for a community. If religious leaders are praying for civil leaders, they are honoring that which God has put in place. As Romans 13:1 states, “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established.” Paul also encouraged believers to pray for their leaders: “I urge … 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. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth” (1 Tim 2:1–4).

Let’s please God by actively seeking, through prayer, “peaceful and quiet lives” – for our nation and especially its leaders. Indeed, we must remain in fervent prayer for those who serve as representatives of the people. Mrs. Shirley Dobson has stated, “if Christians would follow through on this, we would change our lives and the course of history.”

Truth be told, a nation can be punished by the actions of its leaders (II Samuel 24) and disciplined with poor administrators because the heart of the people is wicked (II Kings 17). In the same way, a country can be blessed with good leadership because the people honor God (II Chronicles 7:14; Jeremiah 3:6-18; Proverbs 8:14-16) and Proverbs 29:2 reminds us that, “when the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; but when the wicked rule, the people groan” (nrsv). Therefore, we can honor the structure of leadership that God has blessed (Exodus 18:21; Deuteronomy 17:14-20), by our humble intercession, even if we do not agree with all the decisions that those in authority are making, which is all the more reason to pray for them.

The action of prayer is healthy for a home and a community. We know that God does hear these prayers, which is where the real power resides and the evidence is undeniable.  So, with a resounding “Yes” we can say that prayer does work! It is making a difference in our nation today. From the farm lands to the booming metropolis’ of this great country, prayer is interfering with the plans of the enemy and I could share with you story after story of the change that is often unseen or unreported by the media. From the various reports showing declines in crime, cancer admissions, abortion, and divorce to the restoration of marriages, individuals in prisons, new salvations and more. The challenge we have today is to remain in prayer. The stories of change are powerful, showing that God does hear and heal, but the problem is that we often get complacent, return to our old ways and then wonder why our home life, work life and national life are all in chaos.

The concepts that all men are created equal and endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights are foundational to our country and have had a profound impact on the United States and the culture at large. We must continue to pray that God protects our nation asking that He would install in office men and women who are committed to serving their constituents with integrity. And we must remain in prayer for our elections, beseeching God to prompt our fellow citizens to become involved in this process. Voting is both a duty and a privilege, and the outcomes of our political races are critical in determining the future course of our nation. ¹¹

The need to pray is as great as the authority of God, who commands us to “pray without ceasing” (1 Thess 5:17 nkjv). Prayer is so vital to all that God wants to do on the earth, and it is so essential to us, that He commands us to do it all the time. But the key to successful prayer is the relationship that develops in and through this interstellar conversation. Sometimes we just need to listen, while other times require focused intercession, even repentance, praise and petition. If you want to know the will of God, it is discovered only through devotion to the Word through prayer. So, let’s pray as we have never prayed before and be united in One Voice.

May God’s hand of wisdom and guidance remain upon each segment of our society, and through His Spirit, may believers be inspired to pray continually. We are assured that the Almighty hears our petitions. As people from coast to coast lift their voices in prayer, repentance, and humility, we simply cannot underestimate how the Lord will respond. Let us come before His throne with these words on our lips and in our hearts, “God Bless America!”¹¹

Let’s pray: Lord, we live in a diverse country with blends of many cultures, faiths, and values. I pray that the power of Your Holy Spirit would move among us and tear down the barriers that divide us. May You breathe upon us and instill in us a desire for unity and agreement through a spirit of mutual respect and brotherly love. Forgive us for any discrimination or cynicism or cruelty or superior attitudes we may have harbored I our hearts. I ask You to help my own heart to be free to bring peace to others, to work together with others who don’t share my perspective, and to make a difference in the world. Help me, Father, to be a force for unity (Psalm 133:1). Lord, teach me to be submissive to Your will rather than be filled with criticism for leaders who do not share my values. I resist the cynical spirit that wants to creep in, and I choose to trust in Your sovereignty over all the situations that trouble me. Help me to remember to show proper respect to all people (I Peter 2:13,17) and to pray for them earnestly, serving as a witness to Your love.  

Father, I pray that You will raise up godly and righteous men and women who are strong to stand up and represent Your values and purposes for our nation. May the right people find favor with the citizens and be voted into office, and may those who desire to be in office but lack the integrity be kept out. Give our leaders wisdom to govern and spirits that are willing to work together to do the best for our nation. Guide and bless them that they may enact such laws that please You, to the glory of Your name and the welfare of our people, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

 

About the Author: 

John Bornschein is the former Vice Chairman of the National Day of Prayer Task Force and is currently the Senior Pastor of Calvary Fellowship Fountain Valley church. John and his wife, Brandi, have 5 children and together they have served in ministry for more than 20 years. To learn more, visit www.NationalDayofPrayer.org


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¹       Jennifer Kennedy Dean, Heart’s Cry: Principles of Prayer (Birmingham: New Hope Publishers, 2007), 18.

²       Fred A. Hartley, III, Prayer on Fire: What Happens When the Holy Spirit Ignites Your Prayers (Colorado Springs: NavPress, 2006), 16.

³       List compiled by All About God Ministries, http://www.AllAboutGod.com, cited on National Day of Prayer Task Force Web site, http://www.nationaldayofprayer.org.

⁴       Anthony DeStefano, Ten Prayers God Always Says Yes To: Divine Answers to Life’s Most Difficult Problems (New York: Doubleday, 2007), 10-13.

⁵       Henry Blackaby and Norman Blackaby, Experiencing Prayer with Jesus: The Power of His Presence and Example (Sisters, OR: Multnomah), 28.

⁶       Lifeway Research survey conducted April–May 2007, cited in Cathy Lynn Grossman, “Young Adults Aren’t Sticking with Church,” USA Today, August 6, 2007.

⁷       The Barna Group Ltd, “Twentysomethings Struggle to Find Their Place in Christian Churches,” September 24, 2003, http://www.barna.org/barna-update/article/5-barna-update/127-twentysomethings-struggle-to-find-their-place-in-christian-churches?q=twentysomethings.

⁸       Frank D. Fincham, et al., “Spiritual Behaviors and Relationship Satisfaction: A Critical Analysis of the Role of Prayer,” Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology 27, no. 4 (2008): 362–88.

The National Day of Prayer is Constitutional and Still Legal

Victory for Prayer and Religious Freedom! Shirley Dobson and the National Day of Prayer Task Force celebrate victory. After 6 years of working alongside the Alliance Defending Freedom, all attempts by an atheist organization to block our U.S. President and State Governors from calling for prayer have been defeated. Join us in celebrating with a word of Thanksgiving to God Almighty!

On May 10, 2012, the Colorado Court of Appeals rendered a decision striking down the gubernatorial prayer proclamations in Colorado. The case was filed November 14, 2008 by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. On October 28, 2010, Colorado District Judge R. Michael Mullins dismissed the suit and upheld the constitutionality of Governor Ritter's proclamations. On February 7, 2011, FFRF filed an appeal and on May 10, 2012, the Colorado Court of Appeals overturned Judge Mullins decision. After a massive outcry from people across the country – thousands of concerned citizens appealed to Governor Hickenlooper, so on June 21, 2012, an appeal was filed by the Colorado Attorney General, John Suthers. Oral arguments began on May 1, 2014, the 63rd annual National Day of Prayer in La Junta, Colorado. The Colorado Supreme Count rendered a verdict reversing the Colorado Court of Appeals decision on November 24, 2014 in favor of the Day of Prayer. NEWS RELEASE 11-24-2014_Victory for Prayer

Other Victories for National Day of Prayer:
On Thursday, April 14, 2011, a panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals overturned a ruling by Judge Barbara Crabb rendered on April 15, 2010 (originally filed on October 8, 2008) that previously found the law requiring the President to proclaim a National Day of Prayer each year as unconstitutional. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 7th Circuit, based in Chicago, ruled 3-0 that the Freedom From Religion Foundation (FFRF) and its plaintiffs did not have standing to continue their challenge of the 1952 Congressional Act declaring an annual National Day of Prayer. The panel ruled that FFRF did not have standing to sue because the National Day of Prayer had not caused them harm and stated that "a feeling of alienation cannot suffice as injury.” FFRF appealed and on June 15, 2011, they were denied an en banc rehearing.

On December 12, 2011, a similar case against Arizona Governor Brewer (originally filed on March 15, 2011) for her signing of NDP proclamations was thrown out of court by Judge Silver, a Federal Judge – stating that “hurt feelings” don’t give someone standing to bring a federal case.

Timeline:

• October 8, 2008: FFRF Challenges the Presidential Proclamations for the National Day of Prayer – Files Lawsuit


• November 14, 2008: FFRF Challenges the Governor Proclamations for the National Day of Prayer in Colorado  - Files Lawsuit


• April 15, 2010: Wisconsin District Judge Barbara Crabb rules the National Day of Prayer unconstitutional


• April 22, 2010: The U.S. Department of Justice filed a notice to appeal the ruling of Judge Barbara Crabb


• October 28, 2010: Colorado District Judge R. Michael Mullins dismisses FFRF lawsuit in Colorado ruling in favor of the Colorado Day of Prayer


• February 7, 2011: FFRF files an appeal to the Colorado Court of Appeals regarding the decision from District Judge Mullins


• March 15, 2011: FFRF Challenges the Governor Proclamations for the National Day of Prayer in Arizona – Files Lawsuit


• April 14, 2011: U.S. Court of Appeals for the 7th Circuit Court overturns ruling by Judge Barbara Crabb ruling 3-0 in favor of the National Day of Prayer


• December 12, 2011: Federal Judge Silver dismisses case against Arizona Governor in favor of the Arizona Day of Prayer


• May 10, 2012: The Colorado Court of Appeals overturns Judge Mullins decision in favor of FFRF


• June 21, 2012: Governor Hickenlooper and Colorado Attorney General John Suthers appeal the Colorado Court of Appeals decision to the Colorado Supreme Court


• May 1, 2014: Oral Arguments begin for the Colorado Supreme Court review of the Colorado Day of Prayer


• November 24, 2014: The Colorado Supreme Court renders verdict reversing the Colorado Court of Appeals decision in favor of the Colorado Day of Prayer

Results: The National Day of Prayer wins the Federal, Arizona and Colorado lawsuits.

Fun Facts:

1) There have been 143 national calls to prayer, humiliation, fasting and thanksgiving by the President of the United States (1789-2014).

2) There have been 66 Presidential Proclamations for a National Day of Prayer (1952-2014). Gerald R. Ford (1976), George H. Bush (1989-91) and Barack H. Obama (2012) are the only U.S. Presidents to sign multiple National Day of Prayer Proclamations in the same year.

3) Every President since 1952 has signed a National Day of Prayer proclamation.

4) 34 of the 44 U.S. Presidents have signed proclamations for National Prayer. Three of the Presidents who did not sign a proclamation died while serving in office. Two Presidents, not included in the count – William Howard Taft and Warren Gamaliel Harding, signed proclamations for Thanksgiving and Prayer.

5) Records indicate there have been 1,310 state and federal calls for national prayer since 1775 and counting.

Below you will find an interactive viewer to read the latest National Day of Prayer Impact Report. If this page is blank on your computer screen, then download the PDF to view – click here: NDP_2014_Impact_Report

http://files.flipsnack.com/iframe/embed.html?hash=ftni4iljo&wmode=window&bgcolor=EEEEEE&t=1416269480