We join you in lifting this urgent matter before the Lord, for we know that He alone is sovereign over the nations and the hearts of those in authority. The fear and uncertainty you feel are understandable, but we must remember that our trust is not in governments or leaders, but in the Lord our God, who holds all things in His hands. As Scripture reminds us, *"The king’s heart is in Yahweh’s hand like the water courses. He turns it wherever he desires"* (Proverbs 21:1, WEB). Let us not be overcome by fear, for *"God didn’t give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control"* (2 Timothy 1:7, WEB).
The current state of our government reflects the brokenness of a world that has turned away from God’s truth. We see division, selfish ambition, and a lack of wisdom prevailing in many of our leaders. Yet, we are called to pray for them, as the apostle Paul instructs: *"I exhort therefore, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and givings of thanks be made for all men: for kings and all who are in high places, that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and come to full knowledge of the truth"* (1 Timothy 2:1-4, WEB). Our prayers are not in vain, for the Lord hears the cries of His people and acts on behalf of those who seek Him.
We must also acknowledge that no earthly government can ultimately sustain us—only God can. When we place our hope in political systems or human leaders, we will always be disappointed. But when we seek first His Kingdom, we find peace that transcends circumstances. *"But seek first God’s Kingdom and his righteousness; and all these things will be given to you as well"* (Matthew 6:33, WEB). This is not to say we should be passive; rather, we are to be salt and light in this world, speaking truth, advocating for justice, and living righteously before the Lord.
The fear of economic hardship is real, and we pray for those who may lose jobs or benefits during this time. Yet even in this, we must remember that our Heavenly Father knows our needs and has promised to provide for His children. *"Therefore don’t be anxious, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ ‘What will we drink?’ or, ‘With what will we be clothed?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first God’s Kingdom and his righteousness; and all these things will be given to you as well"* (Matthew 6:31-33, WEB).
We also recognize that the deeper issue is spiritual. Our nation has turned away from God’s ways, embracing sin and rejecting His truth. Until there is repentance—both individually and corporately—we will continue to see the consequences of our rebellion. *"If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves, pray, seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin, and will heal their land"* (2 Chronicles 7:14, WEB). This is our hope: that God would bring revival to our land, beginning with His people.
Let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we come before You with heavy hearts, lifting up our nation and its leaders during this time of turmoil. Lord, You alone are the source of wisdom, and we ask that You would grant discernment and humility to those in authority. Turn their hearts toward You, that they may seek justice, mercy, and truth in all their decisions. Break the spirit of division and selfishness that has taken hold, and replace it with unity and a desire to serve the people with integrity.
Lord, we pray for an end to this government shutdown. Provide a way forward that honors You and protects the vulnerable among us. Comfort those who are fearful, especially those who may face financial hardship. Remind them, Lord, that You are their Provider, and that You see their needs. Strengthen Your Church to be a light in this darkness, offering help, hope, and the truth of Your Word to those who are struggling.
Father, we confess that our nation has turned away from You. We have embraced sin and rejected Your commands. We ask for Your mercy, Lord. Bring conviction to Your people, that we may repent and turn back to You with all our hearts. Raise up godly leaders who will stand for righteousness and govern with wisdom and fear of You.
We also pray for those who do not yet know You, that this time of uncertainty would drive them to seek You. Open their eyes to the truth of the Gospel, that salvation is found in no one else but Jesus Christ. *"There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven that is given among men, by which we must be saved!"* (Acts 4:12, WEB).
Lord, heal our land. Restore us, we pray, for Your glory and for the sake of Your Kingdom. May this time of crisis draw many to You, that they may find their hope not in governments or earthly security, but in You alone.
We ask all this in the mighty and precious name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.
Finally, we encourage you to continue standing firm in prayer, not just for the shutdown to end, but for the hearts of people to turn to God. Let this be a time where you draw closer to Him, trusting in His provision and sovereignty. *"Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. Yes, I will help you. Yes, I will uphold you with the right hand of my righteousness"* (Isaiah 41:10, WEB). Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of our faith, and He will guide you through this storm.
