5 Creative Ways to Pray During Election Season
As election season approaches, many are wondering how to pray in the midst of tension and division. Here are five creative ways to pray for our nation, not focused on any specific outcomes but on unity, peace, and healing for the hearts of people across our country despite the outcomes.
We’ve also attached a printable template with a feather and an image of a map that you can use during these stations. You can do these activities on your own, with your family, in a small group, or even in larger settings like a church or youth group service.
Items needed: Feather and Map template, pens or markers, candle, tape, scissors, journal, notecard
1. Rest in God’s Sovereignty
Verse: “How precious is your steadfast love, O God! The children of mankind take refuge in the shadow of your wings.” -Psalm 36:7
Activity: Begin by taking 10-15 minutes to quiet your soul and focus on God’s sovereignty. Print out the feather and map template and cut them out. Write out names, verses, or descriptions of who God is on the feather—attributes like "faithful," "peaceful," "merciful." Next, hold this feather over the map in the template, praying that God will cover and guide all people in the midst of the election. After that, write down things you are thankful for in your country on the back of the map, cultivating gratitude and trust in God’s control.
2. Seek a Heart of Humility and Repentance
Verse: “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.” (Psalm 139:23-24)
Activity: Take the map and spend some quiet time reflecting on any ways you may have contributed to division, whether through conversations, thoughts, or attitudes. For each thought that comes to mind, tear off a small piece of the map, symbolizing an area where you seek God’s healing. Pray for a humble heart, and ask God to bring unity and understanding.
3. Pray for Restoration and Healing
Verse: “And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you.” (Ezekiel 36:26)
Activity: With the pieces of the map you’ve torn up, begin taping them back together, symbolizing restoration. As you do, pray that God would heal divisions and bring people together. Ask Him to show you ways, both large and small, that you can be a source of peace and healing within your community. Write these ideas down in your journal and commit to acting on them.
4. Be a Light in the Darkness
Verse: “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.” (Matthew 5:14)
Activity: Light a candle and take a few moments to meditate on the power of light. Consider how even a small light can shine brightly in the dark. Pray for God to fill you with His light, replacing any discouragement with hope. Ask Him to show you how to be a light of love, kindness, and understanding in conversations and actions. Write down any ways He may be calling you to be a source of light for others.
5. Pray for Others with Different Views
Verse: “Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed.” (James 5:16)
Activity: Think of someone in your life who holds different political views. Pray for them, asking God to bless and encourage them. Then, write a letter of encouragement to them—keeping it free of political content—and focus on uplifting and encouraging words. This small act can open hearts and remind us of the importance of loving others despite our differences.
Election seasons can be challenging, but by praying with open hearts, we invite God to work in powerful ways. May these five prayer activities help you bring healing, hope, and peace to our nation and to those around you. Remember, true change begins with prayer and a heart aligned with God’s love.
