A recent photo of President Donald Trump praying with faith leaders has gained attention throughout the Christian community and outside of it, as well. In a response from the White House, Deputy Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee-Sanders stated that people should be praying every day.
But there was plenty of controversy surrounding the photo, in that some people stated faith leaders were praying for Trump due to the Russia scandal. Huckabee-Sanders assured that was not the case. The point she made that day was powerful, in that it is not only when people are in crisis that they choose to pray.
Praying is Important In Good and Bad Times
Huckabee-Sanders said, “The idea that somebody would only pray when they’re in crisis I think makes you miss the entire point of what prayer is about. You should do that every day.”
She went on to state that both the best times and the worst times are occasions for prayer. The picture of Trump and the faith leaders was from a meeting with the Faith Advisory Board, that meets with the president to discuss issues that are of importance to the faith community.
Whether the statements made by Huckabee-Sanders are a direct reflection the White House is not completely clear, but in light of the photo – that would seem to be the case.
Regardless of political affiliation or any concerns facing the nation, prayer is and has been a powerful tool used by the White House on a number of occasions. Past presidents have also prayed during good times and bad times for the future health and safety of the country and its people. These leaders have all been Christian, and have used their values and beliefs to help shape the decisions they have made for the good of the American people.
When they look carefully at what Christians do and how they conduct themselves, it becomes easier for them to see the value in helping people feel comfortable with speaking to God.
The White House Can Lead by Example
As leaders of the country and the world, those in the White House have a unique opportunity to showcase the value of prayer on a daily basis. While some presidents have been more private with their faith than others, most have been open and willing to talk about their faith when asked.
But there have not been that many recent photos shared of a president actively praying with others. This stands outside of the realm of politics, and focuses instead on the human spirit and the values shared by Christians throughout the country and the world. When Christians come together in prayer, God hears that prayer and sees the desire of the hearts of those who are praying.
Because the country may be politically divided, prayer can bring people together. When the president prayers with faith leaders, he shows that prayer is important, that faith is important, and that the country is important. These are all necessary to keep Christian ideals and values at the forefront of leadership, and to ensure that the country operates in a way that honors God and follows His teachings.
With all the strife in the country and throughout the world today, knowing that people still pray for one another can be a refreshing change from much of what is seen in print, on television and on the internet where news is concerned.
The World Needs God Now More Than Ever
In addition to many people’s political concerns, there are a number of issues with the country and the world today. America’s lawmakers have become gridlocked over partisan differences, its allies are increasingly threatened from hostile forces abroad, and violent protests have shaken many communities in the country.
Despite the chaos, Christians should rejoice that God is still in control, and prayer is still a valuable way of communicating with Him. By encouraging this activity, the White House is making important strides toward restoring Christian values in a secular world.
~ 1776 Christian
