Healing a Nation’s Wounds

Our recent election revealed a deep divide in America. It’s not that we didn’t know there was one, but I don’t think we knew how deep it was. The ideologies of our citizenry are just about split 50-50 between those that consider themselves liberals and those that think of themselves as conservatives. Some of our beliefs are extreme opposites, such as those who believe in abortion on demand and those who choose life for mothers and the new lives within them. We have our thought-differences, however, there are likely more things we agree on! Most of all, we are a nation that primarily agrees that we should all find ways to get along, help each other, express kindness to each other, and respect one another’s uniqueness. Doesn’t that sound just like Jesus?

“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” (Colossians 3:12; NIV)

Give Him 15 minutes in prayer:

  • Repent if you are harboring any ill will, anger or suspicion toward anyone, because they have a belief system different from yours. Jesus loves them.
  • Ask the Lord to heal this divided nation.
  • Pray for at least one person you know who thinks exactly the opposite of you. If they aren’t born again, pray for their salvation. Now, pray that Jesus will show you how to love them.
  • Go out of your way today to do something Christ-like for someone you don’t agree with philosophically. Get to know them deeper as a person and see if your life isn’t enriched by knowing them better.

A prayer you can pray:

Father, the elections have revealed hate and fear among the people of the United States. Our differences are more glaring than I can ever remember! We seem to be getting further and further apart, but I know that is not Your will for us. Heal our divided nation, Lord! Please forgive me when I get angry with or even reject others when they don’t believe what I believe. How can I show them the love of Christ? Teach me how to love those who are polar opposites to me. Deal with my fear and anger. Show me where these emotions are rooted in me or in my family line. I want to live as Colossians 3:12 commands us. In Jesus’ healing Name I pray. Amen.

Today’s decree:

God will heal the nation’s great divide!