Tomorrow, Thursday, May 4 is National Day of Prayer in America; a day on which the people of the United States may “turn to God in prayer and meditation at churches, in groups, and as individuals.” (Public Law 105-225) Please join Advocates for Faith & Freedom and millions of Americans across the nation as we celebrate our religious liberties by recognizing our National Day of Prayer.
The acknowledgment of our Creator has always been a cornerstone in America’s sustained religious history. The United States of America was founded upon a tradition of faith and now, more than 200 years later, we still rely on God’s essential guidance.
In 1776, General George Washington recorded in his Orderly Book, “…The blessing and protection of Heaven are at all times necessary, but
especially so in times of public distress and danger. The General hopes and trusts, that every officer and man will endeavour to live and act as becomes a Christian soldier, defending the dearest rights and liberties of his country.”
The Supreme Court affirmed our religious roots in 1892 by declaring, “…no purpose of action against religion can be imputed to any legislation state or national, because this is a religious people. This is historically true. From the discovery of this continent to the present hour, there is a single voice making this affirmation…we find everywhere a clear recognition of the same truth….this is a Christian nation.”
Many Christians are unaware that they live in a nation in which a law requires our President proclaim a National Day of Prayer each year. In 1952, President Harry Truman, declaring that “the American people should spend one day a year praying or meditating on their faith,” signed a bill proclaiming the National Day of Prayer into law in the United States. President Reagan amended the law in 1988, designating the first Thursday of May each year as the National Day of Prayer. The National Prayer Committee was formed in the United States in 1972.
During George W. Bush’s presidency, the constitutionality of the National Day of Prayer was unsuccessfully challenged in court by the ever persistent Freedom From Religion Foundation after their first attempt was unanimously dismissed by a federal appellate court in April 2011.
It has recently been reported that President Trump is ready to sign a controversial religious liberty executive order, on tomorrow’s National Day of Prayer. The “Religious Freedom Order” seeks to provide exemptions for religious people and organizations who object to same-sex marriage, premarital sex, abortion, contraception and trans-identity. As expected, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) is already gearing up for a court battle.
In the face of this and other tremendous challenges, prayer is a mighty force for peace, justice, freedom, and a more hopeful future. Let us all solemnly pray with grateful hearts for our nation, for those who lead us, and for those who keep us safe.
Scripture tells us again and again that our earnest prayers are effective; that God responds in powerful ways. Daniel 9:19, says, “Lord, listen! Lord, forgive! Lord, hear and act! For your sake, my God, do not delay, because your city and your people bear your Name.”
“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercessions and thanksgiving be made for all people-for kings and all those in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.” I Timothy 2:1-2
As Advocates for Faith & Freedom boldly stands in the gap for our nation, won’t you join us and millions of Americans throughout our country by attending a National Day of Prayer event in your city or at your church? May God's blessings of peace and prosperity be on our faithful and grateful nation.