To the editor:

Years ago, I purchased a Bible at the Union Public Library's book sale, not that I needed another one, but because it was titled "The American Patriot's Bible." Not only does it have the scriptures, but it also has blurbs scattered throughout as to which passages each President put his hand on as he took the oath of office. 

It also has other interesting factoids of America's history relating to various scriptures. The prayer direction below is taken from one of those, and is very timely for this tumultuous year. In addition to what it says to pray for, we need to pray for divine guidance as we vote for our next leaders, because America needs righteous leadership now more than ever.

As believers, it is our responsibility to pray for America - always, not just in times of national crisis. Without diminishing the importance of the Supreme Court or the Congress or the President, they are not the source of our future or our hope. Only God and the power of the Holy Spirit working in the lives of citizens can sustain the strength and the future of this nation.

First, as God's people, we must humble ourselves and confess to God the sins of our nation as well as our own lives - our self-centeredness, lusts, addictions, the love of the world, and any area in which we are disobeying His Word. God has said, "If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land." (2 Chronicles 7:14)

Second, we must pray for our leaders and authorities. Ask the Lord to give godly wisdom, protection, and direction to the President, Congress, State and local officials, judges, as well as all those whom God has raised up to lead His people. (Ezra 6:10, Romans 13:1-5, 1 Timothy 2:1-3) If we see non-believers taking control of the government, passing laws that violate the laws of God, and jeopardizing our God-given freedoms, our mandate is to intercede and trust God to restore godliness to our nation and communities.

Third, we must pray that the Lord will work in a powerful way in the hearts of believers and people from all walks of life. (Psalm 85, Hosea 6:1-3, Habakkuk 3:2) Only God has the power to free people from the sins that destroy their lives as well as the foundations of righteousness.

Fourth, we must pray for families, for school systems, for the military, for the economy, and for the vital aspects of our society. Be aware of what is going on and pray.

Susan E. Anderson

Tiverton