Millions of Americans take part in a National Day of Prayer each year. Held on the first Thursday in May, the observance allows people of faith to unite in prayer on a national level.
And, we NEED prayer.
Our nation is in trouble – now, more than ever before. The very foundation of America is under assault from every direction. Yet, few of our leaders take a stand for God and His Word.
In this time of moral and political turmoil, it’s easy to think America is at a point of no return. But there is still hope. As Franklin Graham wrote in “How to Pray for America,” nothing is impossible with God. No problem is too big for Him.
So, let’s pray!
đź“‹Â DISCLOSURE – This page has affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, I may earn a commission at no cost to you. Read more here.
National Day of Prayer
We serve a good God of mercy and compassion. He wants us to humble ourselves, seek forgiveness, and ask for guidance. His promise? “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord” (Psalm 33:12).
The National Day of Prayer is a vital part of our American heritage. It began even before our nation’s founding, with a call to prayer by the Continental Congress in 1775.
It continued through the years – especially of note, during that “awful calamity of civil war.” In 1863, President Lincoln declared a National Day of Humiliation, Fasting, and Prayer. He urged Americans to “confess our national sins” and humble ourselves before God.
In 1952, Congress called for an annual day of national prayer. President Truman signed it into law. President Reagan signed an amended version in 1988, fixing the day for the first Thursday in May.
The Presidential Proclamation
This year, President Trump declared May 3 as the National Day of Prayer. Based on Ephesians 4:3, the observance will focus on unity. Our challenge? To “keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
Trump recognized the significance of national prayer in American history. Especially “in times of conflict and darkness.” He cited examples in two former presidents: Roosevelt and George W. Bush.
“America has known peace, prosperity, war, and depression – and prayer has sustained us through it all,” said Trump. “May our Nation and our people never forget the love, grace, and goodness of our Maker.
“And may our praise and gratitude never cease.”
đź“– READ – Independence: The Most Memorable Epoch in American History
How to Pray for America
“God can heal this great land, for which our forefathers fought and died,” said Franklin Graham. “We need spiritual renewal, we need a revival in America, and we need each and everyone to pray.” Here’s what YOU can do:
- Download this FREE prayer guide: How to Pray for Our Leaders
- Download this FREE prayer guide: How to Pray for the Elections
- Order this FREE prayer map: United States Prayer Map
- Wear one of these shirts: Pray for America T-shirt
- Listen to these songs: National Day of Prayer Songs
- Join this national ministry: The Presidential Prayer Team
- Use this Twitter hashtag: #Pray4Unity
- Read this book: Turning the Tide: Real Hope, Real Change
- Read and pray aloud the 2018 National Prayer (see video below)
Wrapping It Up
Our nation is in trouble. The very foundation of America is under assault from every direction. In this time of cultural and political turmoil, it’s more important than ever that we pray for our nation. I hope the resources I’ve shared in the post will help.
God bless you, and God bless America. ◻️
Related Posts
- Prayer Tips: 11 Ways to Focus When You Pray
- The Most Memorable Epoch in American History
- What is Freedom? 16 Bible Verses for Independence Day
Now It’s Your Turn
Thank you for reading my post. Now it’s YOUR turn to chime in. Do you pray for America and her leaders? How will you observe the National Day of Prayer?
Let’s fill the comments with friendly conversation. Scroll down to leave a reply, ask a question, or just say hello. And if you liked this post, please give it a share.
Blessings, Annette
đź“‹Â NOTE – You are reading “National Day of Prayer: Praying for Unity in America.” An earlier version appeared on this blog in 2014. It has been updated for the Savoring Home community.
Photo Sources
Reference Sources
- National Day of Prayer
- White House Press Release
Howdy. Simply just planned to ask a quick question.
Hi, David. Thank you for reading my post. What is your question?