Pray and seek His face

"Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land." 1 Chronicles 7:14 NLT

If you're like most runners who have the day off today, you'll probably celebrate by going for a run. I know I will. But Presidents Day is not merely a day to get in a longer workout but to ponder the meaning of the holiday which began as a celebration of Washington's Birthday on February 22, 1800 following the beloved leaders death in 1799. The day of celebration soon became a federal holiday and continued to be commemorated on that same day each year until 1971 when it was moved to the third Saturday in February. And although the day is now commonly known as Presidents Day instead, it is still listed on official calendars as Washington's Birthday. 

So what was so special about this man for him to be honored in this way and for so long you might ask? That’s simple. He was a man who loved the Lord, loved his country and believed in praying for it. In fact, this prayer penned by Washington is read aloud each day at Mount Vernon's public wreath ceremony, I now make it my earnest prayer, that God would have the United States in his holy protection, that he would incline the hearts of the Citizens to cultivate a spirit of subordination and obedience to Government, to entertain a brotherly affection and love for one another, for their fellow citizens of the United States at large, and particularly for their brethren who have served in the Field, and finally, that he would most graciously be pleased to dispose us all, to do Justice, to love mercy, and to demean ourselves with that Charity, humility and pacific temper of mind, which were the Characteristics of the Divine Author of our blessed Religion, and without an humble imitation of whose example in these things, we can never hope to be a happy Nation. Amen. 

So let us take the opportunity today and every day to not only pray for our leaders and all those in authority but to solemnly, pleadingly and unceasingly pray for our country. That we would once again be a nation known for seeking God's face and following His commands. 

Heavenly Father, we humbly seek Your face today and pray that You will forgive our sins and restore our land. We pray that You would grant our leaders and those in authority wisdom and well-being to make decisions and lead in a way that honors You. It's in Your precious Name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

What if His people prayed