Being Blessed Through Prayer

This past week, I’ve met each morning at City Hall with a small group of friends to pray for our city, our leaders, and the upcoming election. It’s been a wonderful reminder that before ballots are cast, we seek wisdom and peace from God.

A few days ago, as we prayed, a young mother who had brought her children to the park joined us — a simple but powerful picture of Hayden’s heart. We’re a community that connects, cares, and prays together.

I am so greateful that I also have other friends and family who are praying for me during this election season.

Over the past two weeks, several pastors — from my own church and other churches in town — have prayed for the candidates and for God’s guidance in this election. I’ve seen His hand in many ways: in encouragement, in answered prayers, and in peace that passes understanding for this upcoming election.

This morning, one pastor reminded us to put on the full armor of God as described in Ephesians 6:10–20 (NKJV):

"Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints— and for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak."

These words brought to mind a carving I saw in Ephesus, Turkey — an ancient carving of armor etched in stone. It’s a vivid reminder that we don’t face challenges unprepared. God equips us for every battle — spiritual, emotional, and even civic — when we stand firm in His strength. Prayer reminds me that true leadership begins with humility — and that God is ultimately in control. Our job is to trust Him, do our part with all our strength, and leave the results in His hands.

Sandy White

sandy4hayden@gmail.com