On November 4, 2008 the citizens of The United States of America will go to the polls and elect our national leaders for the next four years.

I have voted in every presidential election since 1972, and take the responsibility of voting very seriously. As an American I feel strongly that this election could be the most crucial in the history of our nation.

War, the economy, gas prices, marriage and the family, terrorism, court appointments and the future success or failure of our Republic are all a part of this decision by the American people.

I am not writing these words to endorse a candidate, party or platform. The sole purpose of this article is to encourage all Americans who believe in God, and believe that God answers prayer, to spend forty days in prayer. Should you feel convicted to do so, we also encourage Americans to take part in fasting for this election. You can fast one meal a day, or one day a week or however God leads you to acknowledge that you are praying for His will to be done.

The disciples on one occasion were unable to deliver a young man from demon possession. The young man’s father called upon the Lord Jesus for help, and the young man was set free. When the disciples asked why they were ineffective, Jesus told them “This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting”(Mark 9:29).

Jesus was teaching the value of prayer intensified by denying self. Jesus taught self-denial when he said that whoever would be his disciple must “deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me”(Matthew 11:24).

If you are concerned about the America that our children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren will inherit, then join with others who are committing to pray and fast for the election, and for our newly elected president and vice-president. The brave men and women who are defending our freedom to vote, and their families who are back home waiting for a warrior to return, also need our prayers and encouragement.

If you begin the 40–day prayer watch on Sept. 26, your fortieth day will fall on Election Day, Nov. 4th.

May God bless you, and The United States of America!

Mike Shaw is the pastor at First Baptist Church of Pelham.