Devotional Thoughts: A prayer for the next president

With this post, this blog will go silent on politics until the election is decided. Enough is enough ... for now! 8-)

1 Timothy 2:1-4

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. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.

Lord, have mercy on our nation. Help us to see our sins and make restitution. Work within our nation that we may have peace even if we disagree. Work in our world to bring peace to earth through those who follow you living a life that lifts Jesus, the Prince of Peace for all the world to see.

May you strengthen what is good within us. Help us as people and as a nation to seek justice, to show mercy and to be humble. Help us to trust you and not wealth or other worldly power sources. Help us as people and as a nation to seek to do good and have the courage to oppose evil.

Lord, for all our weaknesses, you have blessed America. You made this land bountiful. You have brought people from all over the world to be part of this great nation. And though we don't get along perfectly, we do try. Thank you that America has been a beacon for freedom and generosity. May it continue to be a force for good in this world.

Lord, whomever wins the election to be president, may you bless him. Give him wisdom to make good decisions. Give him strength to bear the heavy burden of the office. Give him good advisors who will help him see issues with clarity and devise plans that help the people whom he was elected to serve. Give those who voted for the man who does not become president the willingness to have good will toward the man who assumes the office. Give those who supported the winner, humility and a desire to work for all the people not just those who agree with their views.

Father, thank you that Gov. Palin, Sen. Obama, Sen. Biden and Sen. McCain have shown their willingness to serve. Thank you that they are gifted in many ways. Yet, they are, in truth, mere mortals with all the weaknesses and flaws that is our humble situation. Whatever the outcome, help them be good parents, spouses and friends to those who are in their lives. Whatever role you have for them beyond Nov. 4 in the life of our nation, may they be faithful to doing their best to serve the people. Amen.