Finishing the Work
In 1865 the 13th Amendment to the Constitution was passed, which abolished slavery in the United States. On August 6, 1965, the Voting Rights Act of 1965 was passed. This Act of Congress made it illegal to give special tests to African Americans when they registered to vote. These tests were designed to keep them from voting, primarily in the South, also known as The Bible Belt. Why should it take more than 100 years for a people to be truly free in America? Even today, racism abounds in the United States and in the Church in America.
“Do unto others as you would have others do unto you.” (Luke 6:31; MEV)
Give Him 15 minutes in prayer:
Let the reality noted above shock you. 100 years for a people to be set free in an area of basic freedom in the United States of America—the freedom to choose those that would govern them.
Repent on behalf of the Church, as it is commonly said that Sunday morning is the most segregated day of the week. Reality is that the area of the nation that most identified as Christian, the South, held onto racist actions, such as denying the vote, the longest.
Pray that racism would end in America, for the sake of the Native Americans, the African Americans, Hispanics and other cultures. Intercede strongly for the love of God to break all racial barriers down, beginning with the Church and that we would treat one another as we would want to be treated.
A prayer you can pray:
Forgive us, Jesus. Forgive the Church. Racism should have no place at all in the Body of Christ or in areas where we have influence, such as in the southeastern United States. No people group should have to struggle 100 years or more for basic respectful treatment. Lord, forgive us! We should be leading the way and showing the world what love looks like, not leading the way to keep others from equal treatment under the law! Father, break out hearts, as we know Yours breaks when we do not treat each other as You would treat us. Racial reconciliation and mutual respect between people of different races must begin with the Church! Amen.
Today’s decree:
God has made us all in His image and we must not deny one another access to Him or to governance in this nation.