Day 3 | Election Prayers

Prayer for Hope

“Lord, You are my only hope.”

Campaign promises will flow freely as candidates unpack their plans for the betterment of the nation, all but guaranteeing immediate and lasting change if voters will only give them a chance. These promises can lead our hearts astray, causing us to think that as long as the “right” person holds the office, we’ll finally be okay. We’re tempted to turn off the hazard lights and breathe easily once again. However, if the other person wins the vote, we hit the panic button and start calling for midnight prayer vigils because we're surely doomed. These extreme reactions reveal a covert idol of our hearts: the idol of misplaced hope. 

PRAYER

God of hope, forgive me for finding relief and hope in an election. My fickle heart loves to search for comfort in a person—candidate or a political leader. I believe so fully and readily in their plans and promises that I forget that my only hope in life and death is Your Son. His righteous life, vicarious sacrifice, and bodily resurrection guarantee my future, not the outcome of a vote. Keep me from believing the enemy’s lie that everything will surely be okay if my favorite figure is elected and prevent me from falling into despair if that person fails to get the vote in November. My hope is anchored in the Savior, not in a candidate for public office. I’m grateful for the privilege to vote for our earthly leaders, but may I never equate that privilege with true hope. My brothers and sisters across the globe and throughout the ages who have never had nor dreamed of such a privilege have sure possessed no less hope than me. In Christ alone my hope is found. May He be my light, strength, and song before, during, and after the election. Amen.

BIBLE VERSES

• Jeremiah 29:11—“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

• Romans 15:13—“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

REFLECTION QUESTIONS 

Take a moment and answer the following reflection questions in your journal or in the comments below.

• In what ways have I put my hope in people instead of God?

• How can I better anchor my hope in Christ?

---

Do you know someone who would like to participate in the 4-Days of Prayer This Election? Share this with them using the button below!