NOTES:
This week through the devotional I will be preparing us for the upcoming National Day of Prayer.
We will be looking at Psalm 72. The inscription at the top informs us of the historical background with only two words, “Of Solomon”. Some scholars interpret the Hebrew word to mean, “For Solomon”. Thus, this psalm was either a prayer written by David for his son as he prepared to lead the nation, or it was penned by Solomon as he began his reign. Either way, the Holy Spirit inspired this beautiful psalm as a prayer for those in authority over a nation. 1 Timothy 2:1-4 urges us as believers to pray over those who are in authority over us.
The annual observance of a National Day of Prayer was first enacted by President Harry S. Truman back on July 4, 1952. When Ronald Reagan was President, he proclaimed the first Thursday of each May beginning in 1988 as the day for the annual observance of a National Day of Prayer. It is coming up soon for us this year, so I thought this psalm would prepare us for praying for our nation. It could, of course, be prayed for any nation. I like what Chuck Colson said after President Reagan received wild cheers after a speech at the National Association of Evangelicals. When Colson came to the mic he said, “The kingdom of God did not arrive on Air Force One.” Haha. As we read through the pages of Scripture, we are reminded that His kingdom is much larger than any one nation.
1. Pray for a government that will judge in accordance with biblical justice, 72:1-2
2. Pray for a government with standards based upon moral righteousness, 72:1-3
3. Pray for a government that cherishes relational values, 72:2, 4, 12-14
4. Pray for a government that leads with financial responsibility, 72:3, 15-16
5. Pray for a government that will protect from internal or external aggressors, 72:4-5
6. Pray for a government that strengthens national stability and security, 72:6-7
7. Pray for a government that earns international respect, 72:8-11
8. Pray for a government that seeks spiritual blessing, 72:15, 17, 20
9. Pray for a government that focuses on eternal glory for God, 72:18-19
Growing in Grace Devotions and Inspirations
Hosted by Pastor Victor Morrison
First Baptist Church 1700 Milam Street Columbus, TX, USA 78934
http://fbccolumbustx.org/
