America's Future?
July 14, 2010
"See how the faithful city has become a harlot! She once was full of justice; righteousness used to dwell in her-but now murderers...they all love bribes!" (Isaiah 1:21, 23a).
Thanks for praying and fasting with us this Wednesday, July 14.
Years ago I landed in the Nairobi, Kenya airport. To my surprise, large signs were placed in the corridors which read: DO NOT ALLOW AN OFFICIAL TO BRIBE YOU. I thought, "What am I, a foreigner, supposed to do, arrest him?"
When nations forget the God of the Bible, their ethics and integrity are redefined. Bribery becomes an accepted way of doing business. The police look the other way, because they themselves are demanding bribes--from the top on down.
Today, let's pray that truth will not fall in our streets. Let's pray that our officials will cling to honesty and integrity. Let's pray that Isaiah's vision for Israel will not be repeated in the USA.
Let's pray.
1. Let's pray for ourselves.
Dear Lord,
We humble ourselves first. Examine our own hearts today, and see if there is anything unclean or displeasing to you. Our hearts are deceptive and desperately wicked. It's only by Your grace we stand. Help us to cleanse our own hearts and homes first.
2. Let's pray for our city and nation.
Dear Lord,
A nation who does not learn from history is destined to repeat it. Forgive us please for our continued unfaithfulness to you. We acknowledge that unless the Lord builds the house, the people who build it labor in vain. Please do not take Your Holy Spirit from us. We desperately need Your grace.
3. Let's pray for the global advancement of the gospel.
Dear Lord,
Today we remember many youth and adults that are embarking on summertime mission outreaches. We pray for Your protection over their spirits, souls, and bodies. Implant Your compassion in their hearts for the unsaved people around them. Help Your people return from their trips with a fresh fire that will spread to the rest of us. In Jesus' name we pray, amen.