On Inauguration Day, two men of very differing points of view stood on the platform in front of our nation's Capitol. One said, "so help me God" and the other prayed that God would help him as he assumed the office of our great nation. Rick Warren said, "I am honored to pray God's blessing on the office of the President...asking the Lord to provide wisdom to America's leaders during this critical time in our nation's history."
The Bible urges us to pray for our leaders. Paul mentors a pastor saying, "I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people, plead for God's mercy upon them, and give thanks. Pray this way for kings and all others who are in authority, so that we may live in peace and quietness, in godliness and dignity." (1 Timothy 2:1-2)
It's time to pray " always has been. Many, many years ago, God gave these words and promise to His people, "When I shut up the heavens so that there is no rain, or command locusts to devour the land or send a plague among my people, 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 will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land." (2 Chronicles 7:13-14)
It's time to pray for our leaders. The times are turbulent. There seems to be more conflict in the world than ever before and our economy is weakening. During this drought, it may seem that God has shut up the heavens. Our land is being devoured by locusts of a financial sort. There are plagues of illness, despair and hopelessness, bombings and bailouts.
It's time to pray for us. Though our investment mountains may slip into the heart of the sea, though the newspapers roar and foam, though our world quakes at the sound of the network news, the Bible promises that, "God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear." I'm reminded of an old saying, "I don't know what the future holds, but I do know who holds the future!"
The times call for us to humble ourselves and pray. Set aside some regular time to pray for our leaders. Ask God to inspire them, especially those "on the hill." Pray that they will receive wisdom and be a "light to the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden." (Matthew 5:14)
Pray for protection for them and their families. Especially remember our armed forces who lead by serving our country.
Good things happen when people pray. So let's just do that. Be honored to pray for God's blessing and ask the Lord to provide wisdom to America's leaders during this critical time.
How can leaders successfully lead during these very challenging times? Only with God's help. So help me God.
n The Reverend Bill Baltz of Christ Presbyterian Church in Gardnerville is a member of the Carson Valley Ministers' Association.
