Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise. – James 5:13

Do you remember the first ballot you cast in a presidential election? You may look back on your younger self with amusement or perhaps a sense of pride at fulfilling your civic duty. For many, it was a memorable moment. Psychologists have studied why a person goes out of their way, in some cases going to great trouble, to cast that single vote! Over the years, studies have revealed that the voting public believes that what they do, even if it is small, makes a difference in the grand scheme of things.

Some members of Congress and legislators in the states are working to protect the integrity of elections, trying to ensure that all votes are cast only by eligible citizens of the U.S. The cumulative impact of all the votes determines the direction the nation will turn. A similar cumulative impact can result from prayer!

“So Peter was kept in prison, but earnest prayer for him was made to God by the church“ (Acts 12:5). Even the prayer of one righteous person can have a significant effect (James 5:16). “Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed fervently that it might not rain, and for three years and six months it did not rain on the earth. Then he prayed again, and heaven gave rain, and the earth bore its fruit” (James 5:17-18).  

Prayers, like votes, are offered one per person, one at a time. On the right day, at the right time, Elijah’s prayer made a HUGE difference. Today, pray for God to work His will through the presidential administration, asking daily for His guidance and blessing upon the United States. Intercede for the people of this country, from every walk of life, to turn to God in hope, trusting Christ for life and salvation. Your faithful prayers each day make a difference. Know that others are praying along with you, too!