In Billy Graham’s devotional book, Hope for Each Day, he mentions a time at the early beginnings of the formation of the United States of America when our founding fathers prayed during a meeting of the Continental Congress in Philadelphia. The purpose was the ratification of the constitution.

The delegates to the Congress became angry with each other, and because they could not resolve their conflicts or agree on anything at all, the delegates gathered their belongings and headed for the door.

Reminds me of the attitude children have when they can’t get there way. If I don’t get my way, then I’ll take my ball and go home.

Fortunately for our country, one man had enough sense to offer the correct solution.

Benjamin Franklin spoke to the delegates. It is reported these were his words.

Wait a minute, gentlemen. This country was conceived in faith in God. Many of us here believe in prayer. Let us get upon our knees and pray to Almighty God and see whether God shall give to us the answer to our dilemma.

The delegates to the Constitutional Convention put aside their differences, and for the good of our country surrendered their egos to God, got on their knees and prayed. The Constitution of the United States of America was the result of their prayers.

We have no lesser challenge today.

God still sits on his throne. He still listens to the prayers of his children. He still reigns supreme and is the Lord who answers prayer.

As Christ-followers we have the unbelievable privilege to approach the throne of God with our petitions and thanksgivings, yet I fear too many of us take that privilege too lightly.

As a collective of believers, we can come boldly before the throne of God and offer our requests on behalf of our country.

Let’s not be like those who decided nothing could be done, so we’re going to walk away. Instead, let’s humble ourselves, seek God’s face, acknowledge he is the One in control, not us, turn from our wicked ways, yield our selfish pride and will to God’s sovereignty, present our requests, leave them at God’s feet, and watch how he works among our midst.

Leave a comment below to share your thoughts on the subject. If you think others would appreciate reading this, please share it through the social media buttons.

Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NLT)

You can find my September Inspire a Fire post here. Please stop by and read it.

I wish you well.