America, known as the greatest country on Earth, is in a crisis. After finishing a circus of an election, the world is watching, as we have found ourselves with a rising tide of racism, and continuous injustice. Everyone has an opinion. Whether it be elected officials, the media, or even leaders of the other nations, everyone seems to be chiming into the conversation. But, America doesn’t need an opinion. We need truth. We need justice and hope. Most importantly we need prayer.
Our nation needs the Lord to step in like never before. God says “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 I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land (2 Chronicles 7:14).” This is a call to repentance and prayer. This is an alarm that is sounding over America through the Word of God. Let’s respond by interceding for our nation. The people in positions of leadership, authority, power, and influence need to be lifted in fervent prayer, so that they’ll make wise decisions that will better this country.
College students and young adults, I want to encourage you that we can make an impact! If we stay current with the events in our nation, our prayers will be more effective. We must be fully aware of the laws and policies around us. We are the next generation, and many of the decisions and events that are happening today will affect us the most in the coming years. We have to engage in prayer and action. It’s important that we exercise our rights as citizens.
I was saddened during the election to find that most of the people I spoke with didn’t vote or have a full grasp on all of the issues that were being debated. Some thought it was all pointless and that their vote wouldn’t count. However, God desires to use us, if we allow Him to, in every aspect of our lives and that includes exercising our right to vote as citizens of America. Voting is a privilege and having sought the will of our Father in heaven, we ought to vote into office the candidates that God tells us to.
Last year, I attended Decision America Tour 2016 in Trenton, NJ. This event was created by Franklin Graham, son of well-known evangelist Billy Graham. The purpose was to bring together followers of Jesus to stand in fervent prayer at our state’s capitol buildings for our country, our state, and our communities. The New Jersey event was amazing. We enjoyed worship and prayer right outside our state capitol building. With nearly 3000 people in attendance and 125 people giving their lives to Christ, I was still shocked to see the lack of young people.
What that event showed me was that the older generation of believers cared more about the issues of America and taking them to God than young people. That’s a problem. Prayer may not be the popular thing to do among young people but we know we need to pray. We are the next generation, and the decisions and events that are happening today will shape this country in the coming years. It is imperative that we get involved with the changes that are happening not only on the national level, but also in our state and local communities.
God tell us in his word how powerful prayer is, but don’t stop there. Prayer is the launching pad and the foundation, but you can use your power to get involved. Be the change you want to see in your school districts, college campuses, and communities. Are you hoping and wishing that they change the laws in your town, your child’s school, or your university? If so, step out and make change. Join the SGA at your college or the PTA at your child’s school. You can even consider running for one of the political offices in your town or city. Daniel, a Jewish prophet, served several kings as an esteemed advisor in a heathen country. Although he was brought to Babylon against his will, he had power and leadership. So don’t count yourself out. God can use you to make a difference!
America may have seen more peaceful days but remember God is still powerful and in control. Be encouraged! Do your research (social media is not always real news) to know the facts. Speak to lawmakers or people who know the policies in your towns and state. Franklin Graham created a pledge for born-again Christians to uphold in America. I challenge you to click the link below and take a look. If you feel that you can uphold it, print it out and put it somewhere where you will see it everyday. Share it with fellow peers, your family, and your church. Overall, remember to continually pray for President-elect Donald J. Trump. He is being inaugurated as the President of the United States of America this Friday, January 20th 2017.
Young adults, it’s time to rise up, and pray for your nation!
https://decisionamericatour.com/pledge/
By: Kayla Kinard
Kayla Kinard is a Young Adults Leader at Christ Church. She works in Book Publishing in New York city and aspires to be an author herself for children books one day. Her favorite hobby is making others laugh and smile!
