President Nelson shares message for National Day of Prayer
May 5, 2022, 12:08 PM | Updated: 12:56 pm
(The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints)
SALT LAKE CITY — President Russell M. Nelson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints shared a message on this year’s National Day of Prayer, saying prayer leads us to bless the lives of others.
“I invite you to consider how your thoughts and prayers can be a catalyst for God to inspire and direct you toward acts of kindness, compassion and generosity,” he said.
Congress has designated the first Thursday in May as the National Day of Prayer.
President Nelson’s full message can be read below:
“On this National Day of Prayer, I have been pondering the evolving meaning in our society of the phrase “thoughts and prayers.” For many, this is still a sincere expression of condolence and concern. For others, it is viewed as a perceived lack of action in the face of tragedy.
“I have a firm belief that praying for those in need is pleasing to God; in fact, He commands us to turn to Him and to pray for others! However, it is my own personal experience that when I ask God in prayer for direction on what I can do to help minister, lift, love, and support those in need, He answers these prayers with specific and simple things I can actually do to bless one of His children.
“I invite you to consider how your thoughts and prayers can be a catalyst for God to inspire and direct you toward acts of kindness, compassion, and generosity. Imagine how much good you could do in the world—and in your own family, school, and workplace. As we seek to be His healing and helping hands, we surely will exalt the Lord.”
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In 2021, President Nelson and three members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shared messages on prayer and the influence it can have on lives.
Elder Jeffrey R. Holland encouraged people to “be strong, be believing and keep praying. Prayers are often heard and answered in the most unexpected hour.”
Our Heavenly Father can see things we can’t see. While we see mortal problems and pain, He sees our immortal potential and progress. If we pray to know His will, He will guide and help us along the way.
— Russell M. Nelson (@NelsonRussellM) May 6, 2021
Elder D. Todd Christofferson taught that God speaks to different people in different ways.
“There’s no one form of revelation or inspiration. God uses a great variety to reach us, whatever He feels is best. And it’s all valid,” Elder Christofferson said.
No matter how you pray or to whom you pray, please exercise your faith—whatever your faith may be—and pray for your country and for your national leaders. There is nothing more important right now than the people of all nations praying for divine inspiration and guidance.
— M. Russell Ballard (@BallardMRussell) May 6, 2021