To effect change, start with prayer

This week I had the privilege of joining together with other Christians in a very unique place. We met in a room just next to the Senate Chambers in the Nevada Legislative building. There were a few churches represented there of various background and denominations but united in purpose. We prayed for wisdom in our government leaders, healing in our land, comfort to those affected by our economy and protection for those who serve.I am grateful and blessed to live a country that made it a priority to have religious freedoms. This is something that sets us apart from many other countries. In our community we have a great opportunity to come together as Christ’s church and pray on behalf of our leaders, and to be able to pray in a place where many of them are serving. This is something the churches of Carson City should take advantage of.We are told throughout scripture that our prayers are powerful and effective; we are encouraged to keep in prayer governing officials and those in authority. We pray for these people believing that it will effect change both in their administrations and in our own lives. It is God who raises up and cast down leaders and in His time answers our prayers. We do this because the attitude necessary to pray for those you may not agree with helps the one praying to live a quiet and peaceful live in godliness.Prayer can trigger the grace of God, provided it is a prayer offered in humility and repentance, a turning from sin to God. 2 Chronicles 7:14 “if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” The promise of this passage is that if there is recognition of sin, genuine sorrow for sin, and prayer our God will heal and forgive. Even today we need this attitude in our country.To effect change we must begin with prayer whether in our home or in public. Whenever God’s people consider His power and mercy and call to Him for help, we can expect to be heard and our prayers answered. I would like to invite you to meet with us at the Legislative building, it is open every Tuesday, throughout the day.• Micheal Hurlbert is pastor of Carson City's First Christian Church.