By Doug Poling
Several of the Southeastern states in America have been plagued by drought. It has been especially bad in Florida, Georgia and Alabama. The state of Georgia seems to have the most serious problem. Officials there are worried that the water supply may even dry up completely for several communities. Georgia Governor Sonny Purdue has taken a number of measures including restrictions on water use. But Purdue went beyond these human solutions. Purdue invited lawmakers and ministers to join him on the steps of the state capitol to pray for rain.
Some people criticized Purdue. But others pointed out that public officials in America and elsewhere often call on God for help in such situations. For example, Prime Minister John Howard of Australia asked churchgoers to pray for rain in hopes of ending a drought that has ruined crops and bankrupted farmers in his country.
Prayer has a long tradition in American public life. The first president of the United States, George Washington, once declared a day of prayer and Thanksgiving. President Harry Truman established a National Day of Prayer. Christians certainly believe in prayer, in good times and in bad. We thank God for His blessings and we ask for His help in time of need. The apostle Paul once urged Christians to pray on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. The apostle John wrote in one of his letters that if we ask anything according to God’s will He hears us.
Prayer is important. Most of us probably don’t pray often enough. If you haven’t been praying, try talking to God and begin enjoying that blessing.
That’s Today’s News and the Good News. I’m Doug Poling.