"...The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much."

- James 5:16

How does it feel to wake up the day after one of the most unusual, yet important, elections in our nation? Perhaps we should begin with prayer. Pray in acceptance knowing “there is no authority except from God.” Pray for “all who are in authority in order that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity.” Pray that “the peace of God… shall guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Pray “at the same time … that God may open up to us a door” to share with others the peace that comes only through Christ. Pray that the Lord would “not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from evil”; the very sin and evil we quickly see in others but much less in ourselves. Pray knowing “the prayer of the upright is His delight” and that “He hears the prayer of the righteous.” In light of what has been taking place in our country and the world, you might say my prayers seem to accomplish little. But, as the Scripture says, we can know for sure our prayers can accomplish much; trust, peace, hope, a concern for others and self-examination in our own lives every single day. Be encouraged!

References: James 5:16; Romans 13:1; 1 Timothy 2:2; Philippians 4:7; Colossians 4:3; Matthew 6:13; Proverbs 15:8, 29