A reference on the National Day of Prayer, and how it affects Christians and Americans alike.
Importance of Prayer in American Culture
The idea of having prayer in our country first started in 1775 as a “day of fasting and prayer” when the Continental Congress called for public prayer during the hard times before the United States declared its independence from British rule. So, you could say that prayer was instilled into us as a country even before our birth as a nation. The National Day of Prayer itself has been celebrated in America since 1952 when President Harry S. Truman signed a joint resolution of Congress proclaiming a National Day of Prayer. This was a highlight but there was not a fixed day assigned as a holiday. In 1988 that changed when President Ronald Reagan signed into law, making it the first Thursday in May. This day of prayer serves to highlight the importance of prayer to the citizens of this country which can go back as far as the early pilgrims who came to the New World seeking religious freedom, (which is even before American culture!)
Opposing Views
Some think that the National Day of Prayer is controversial due to the fact that many feel that the word “prayer” means Christianity even though our country has stated that this holiday doesn’t lean to any particular religion but rather a connection with God.
The Freedom From Religion Foundation oppose the National Day of Prayer. In 2008 they sued the government claiming the phrase "turn to God in prayer, at churches" in the 1952 law violated the First Amendment. A resolution in the House of Representatives to make a "National Day of Reason" did not pass in 2015. Those that want a National Day of Reason state a National Day of Prayer is not fair to people who don't believe in religion, which to me is crazy because I know a lot of people that are not Irish or Mexican that celebrate St. Patrick's Day and Cinco De Mayo respectively.
Is the National Day of Prayer Biblical?
Short answer, no. You see, a National Day of Prayer is not mentioned anywhere in the Bible. The practice of prayer is highly emphasized in the Scriptures however. Jesus Himself prayed often, and the Bible encourages believers to pray without ceasing. Even though we should be praying daily and often personally, the National Day of Prayer is an opportunity for Christians to come together and fulfill this biblical commandment.
Celebrating National Day of Prayer as Christians
The National Day of Prayer can be a great way for you as a Christian to experience a real-life application by celebrating your faith and connect with God with others. You can use this day to pray for our nation and its leaders, for families, loved ones, or for the Church. When you together in prayer, you can encourage others to seek God's guidance and direction for their lives.
Conclusion
A day like the National Day of Prayer reminds every one of the power of prayer. It is a day that we as Christians can emphasize and evangelize the significance of prayer in our American culture and highlights the need to come together in prayer as a nation. There is no doubt that prayer is powerful. Whether we pray as individuals or as a nation, prayer can change lives and impact our world. Nobody needs a National Day of Prayer so they can pray. Do you need Valentine's Day to tell someone that you love them or Mother's and Father's Day to show appreciation and respect to your parents? A National Day of Prayer serves us as a reminder that we need to bring awareness to others that might not pray often or at all that we can communicate with God instantly and gain the guidance we need in our lives individually or as a nation.
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Andrew R. Davis, a Christian blogger, speaker, and ministry leader, passionately shares the Word of God, guiding others in understanding the Bible and discovering their unique role in God's plan. Through HolyBanter.com, his podcast, and creative pursuits, he empowers Christians to incorporate spiritual gifts into everyday life, igniting their purposeful journey.
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