One Nation Under God also has her foundation under-girded in Prayer.
1Timothy 2:1-2 says, “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.
The Apostle Paul used the word “urge” (parakaleo) meaning to exhort with urgency. He wrote “first of all” meaning that prayer for those in leadership is of primary importance in the church, a very essential part of public worship.
We are to pray for those in leadership positions, Republicans praying for Democrats and Democrats praying for Republicans. The heart of God is not first for Republicans to be praying for more Republicans and Democrats praying for more Democrats. “Many years ago a famous chaplain was asked, ‘Do you pray for the Senators?’ he replied with, ‘No, I look at the Senators, and then pray for our county!”
This was really a very good answer for Proverbs 21:1 says, “The King’s heart is in the hand of the Lord; He directs it like a watercourse wherever He pleases.” God’s Word affirms that the decisions of the king are under the Lord’s control. And God moves the king to do as he pleases. As the farmer channels the water where he wants and regulates its flow, so does the Lord with the king. No human ruler then, is supreme. God determines the results of his reign and how long he reigns as the king or in America’s case, governs as president.
Christians are to pray in accordance with Exodus 18:21-22, “But select capable men from all the people--men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain--and appoint them as officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties and tens. Have them serve as judges for the people at all times…”
“Judges” (sapat) here means to govern. This Hebrew word is much more inclusive than the modern day concept of judging and encompasses all the facets and function of government; executive, legislative and judicial. Judges are to be men who have a fear of the Lord and they have a serious charge
This is why a vigilant nation will have men like George Washington who prayed, “Bless O Lord the whole race of mankind, and let the world be filled with the knowledge of Thee and Thy Son, Jesus Christ.” Men like Abraham Lincoln who served our nation in its bloodiest war who said, “I have been driven many times to my knees by the overwhelming conviction that I had nowhere else to go to and my own wisdom… seemed insufficient for the day.”