"RIGHTEOUSNESS EXALTS A NATION, BUT SIN IS A REPROACH TO ANY PEOPLE"

“Praying like Daniel” 
Sandra Fischer

Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people. Proverbs 14:34 ESV

How should Christians pray today for our nation in crisis? 

Consider the prayer of Daniel. 

While in Babylonian exile, he recalled the prophet Jeremiah’s words that unfaithful Israel would know desolation for 70 years. 

This drove Daniel to pray, to confess unrighteousness and beseech God’s mercy.

Contemplate this condensed version in the context of your nation today and how we each might humbly pray for our country:

“Lord, you are righteous, but this day we are covered with shame. . .because of our unfaithfulness to you. . .We have sinned against you. The LORD our God is merciful and forgiving, even though we have rebelled. . . we have not obeyed the Lord our God or kept his laws. All. . .have transgressed and turned away, refusing to obey you. . .

Under the whole heaven, nothing has ever been done like what has been done. . .All this disaster has come on us, yet we have not sought the favor of the Lord our God by turning from our sins and giving attention to your truth. . .the Lord our God is righteous in everything he does, yet we have not obeyed him.

Now, LORD our God. . .who made for yourself a name that endures to this day, we have sinned. . . . in keeping with all your righteous acts, turn away your anger and your wrath. . .

Now, our God, hear the prayers and petitions of your servant. For your sake, Lord, look with favor. . . Give ear, our God, and hear. . . We do not make requests of you because of our righteous acts, but because of your great mercy. Lord, listen! Lord, forgive! Lord, hear and act! For your sake, my God, do not delay. . .” (excerpted from Daniel 9:7-19)

Sandra is a FaithWriters Platinum member, author of “Seasons in the Garden.” Contact