I want to preface this by saying that I am no expert. I am just a concerned citizen who wants to be intentional about this new era and important time for our country. Here are some ideas and suggestions for how to pray and enter the throne room of God BEFORE going to vote. I encourage you to stop and think and pray everyday not just before the election. This time is so crucial and important for the future of America. While voting is hugely important, there is no better action to take than by praying to our ultimate Protector, Healer, and Omniscient God.

1. Pray for the current President and his family.

This might seem kind of odd but while we are on the brink of new leadership, we must still think about our current leader. President Obama and his family still need our prayers in the final days in the White House. They have an important job in transition and leaving their final remarks and decisions. Pray that God would surround their family and decisions over the next couple months.

2. Pray for the Church.

As a body of believers across the country, it is our job to pray for others. Pray that believers would step out in faith and participate in this election. Pray that as a body, God would direct us in our decisions. Let us take a stand for religious liberty and unite together under the name of Jesus.

3. Pray for BOTH candidates.

Whether you like Hillary or Trump or some other candidate it does not matter. Someone will step in, to fill the shoes as our leader. Set your opinions aside because whoever that may be, they need prayer. They need guidance and direction to lead this country well. Pray that God would come alongside that person and guide them. Pray that they would lead us closer to preserving our liberties and protecting the people.

4. Pray that God’s presence would surround the candidates.

While neither the democrat nor the republican candidate may directly align with Christian values, we need to pray that they would see God and seek counsel from those who do know Him. Pray that his presence would be around them and influence their decisions.

5. Pray for the voters, including yourself.

We are told constantly that it is important to vote. As a citizen, it is our duty and responsibility. Pray that people would step up and take action despite the hard position we are in to chose a candidate who reflects our beliefs. We live in a country where we get to have a say in our government and we get to participate in decisions. Let us not take that lightly but have pride in our country and trust the Lord through our decision.

The power of prayer and interceding for others is bigger than we could ever imagine. Trust that God is in control and pray according to His will.

1 Timothy 2:1-2 "First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, for kings and all those who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. This is good, and it pleases God our Savior, who wants everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth."