Pioneer and Bell Church of Christ

On April 15, 2010, a federal judge in Wisconsin ruled that our country's National Day of Prayer is unconstitutional because it calls on Americans to take part in a religious activity and that it violates the Constitution's prohibition against government establishment of religion. Let me say I agree with those who believe that a day set aside for prayer for the country is supported by the First Amendment and reflects our country's history.

I would think that a stronger case could be made for the elimination of chaplains from the Armed Forces and the closing of all chapels on federal land. But then, maybe that is where some are heading: the complete removal of all things associated with God from the public square.

The Government currently does tell us when and where we can pray. I have had members of my family upbraided by officials for silently giving thanks for their lunch. I think we are in greater danger of the Government persecuting religion than the Government establishing religion.

Now, as far as a day of prayer is concerned, for Christians it is nothing special. We are to pray without ceasing and in everything give thanks (1 Thessalonians 5:17-18). That means we are to be praying every day and to be thankful for our daily blessings.

The State has never had anything to fear from Christians. The New Testament demands obedience to the State as long as it does not compromise our obedience to God (Romans 13:1-7; 1 Peter 2:13). We are even to pray for those who have the rule over us whether they want those prayers or not (1 Timothy 2:1-3).

Prayer is the means by which believers communicate with God. Effective prayer depends on faith and a right relationship with God. Prayer is both a responsibility and privilege. With all this in mind, I fail to understand how any Christian could find it offensive or illegal for a national recognition of prayer, especially since it imposes no duties or burdens on any American.

Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. "Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation." "For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same:" "For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil." "Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake." "For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing." Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.

"Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme;"

"I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;" "For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty." For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;