Prayer alone isn’t going to save our nation or overturn wickedness in the land.  It is only the tangible evidence of a righteous people who pray from that posture that will attract heaven to earth. It is not simply our petitions, but our practices that will determine God’s response to our cries for intervention.

Even as an increasing number of believers are interceding for a Kingdom outcome in our government structures, we must remember that it is only the prayers of a righteous man or woman that are powerful and effective in displacing strongholds (James 5:16). To be righteous is not simply to believe in God or desire His ways. To be righteous is to be obedient; one who faithfully listens to God’s voice and follows His instructions. Abraham’s promised legacy of a righteous nation was the result of his obedience and faithful walk, not just his prayers.

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Your descendants will take possession of the cities of their enemies, and through your offspring all nations on earth will be blessed, because you have obeyed me. (Gen 22:17-18)

In Psalm 37, there are numerous references to those who “inherit the land.” In each instance, there is a prerequisite. Interestingly, none of them is to pray:

Verse 9: “…but those who hope in the Lord will inherit the land.”

Verse 11: “…the meek will inherit the land.”

Verse 18: To “the blameless…their inheritance will endure forever.”

Verse 27: Those who “Turn from evil and do good…you will dwell in the land forever.”

Verse 29: “The righteous will inherit the land.”

Verse 34: To those who “Hope in the Lord and keep his way, He will exalt you to inherit the land.”

We are most definitely given the command to pray (1 Tim 2:1-2) and urged to intercede for our leaders (Jer 29:7). And yet, those very prayers will only bear fruit if they come from a heart rightly postured and a life rightly lived. Let us remember that it is the evidence of obedience and faithfulness to God’s Word and His ways that will ultimately determine the outcome we so fervently pray for. Even as we search our own hearts on a consistent basis, let us also pray for brothers and sisters around the nation who desire righteous rule in our country. Let us encourage one another to walk in a manner that draws heaven’s attention and creates a place where the Righteous Judge can execute justice and grant us our requests.

Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; love and faithfulness go before you. Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, Lord. They rejoice in your name all day long; they celebrate your righteousness. (Ps 89:14-16)