Trump and Pence Express Gratitude for Prayer

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could live to see Jesus’ prayer in John 17 answered in our day through yielded lives? I believe the stage is set for the next Great Awakening, and we are blessed to have this opportunity to be a part of it.

Since I first met Mr. Trump in the spring, I have been amazed at his kindness and openness to hear my heart. When victory was obvious, I called Mr. Trump to congratulate him. In the next few moments he thanked me profusely and expressed gratitude for the prayers of all the leaders and told me he was amazed at the response he was hearing from evangelicals who came out to support him. Then he said, “Gov. Pence is here. He wants to talk to you to thank you. I’m so grateful prayers are being answered.”

Gov. Pence came on the phone expressing gratitude for the efforts we put in as church leaders, evangelicals and Catholics. During our discussion, I referenced the fact that this great thoroughbred, this powerful man, had in meekness submitted to the gentle touch of a less-than-100-pound jockey. Indeed, that’s what I had shared with Donald Trump in April: “If you learn meekness and put the power God has given you into motivating and inspiring people, you can win the Triple Crown, just like Secretariat; but in fact, sir, you can also help change the course of history, save freedom in America and impact the world.”

I let Gov. Pence know how pleased we are as church leaders that he is in that very special place. What a gift from God he can prove to be! I have shared this openly, and you are free to pass it on: In 55 years of ministry I have never been received more graciously, with such sincere interest and deep appreciation. I pray the world sees the humility and eagerness to discover what is best for everyone that I’ve observed the past seven months.

Betty and I listened to Mr. Trump’s acceptance speech late last night. It flowed with humility and a deep sense of gratitude, along with a sincere desire to build necessary unity in our nation. The way he specifically complimented individuals and reached out to Sec. Clinton and all of America in what was for him a joyous occasion spoke volumes. That’s the Donald Trump that I, Dr. Ben Carson, Gov. Huckabee and others have come to know very well.

When I talked to Mr. Trump this morning, he was thrilled and overflowing with gratitude for the evangelical support. He said, “James, I understand it breaks records.” I said, “Sir, I want you to know how much I love you. Thank you for working for my family, for all our families and for freedom. Thank your family for all the hard work they have done.” He said, “I love you, and I thank you. I want you to thank everyone.”

I said, “I just want to help. I want to see you surrounded with wisdom and prayer.” He said, “James, surround me with it! Surround me! And don’t ever let me forget it.” I heard in those moments, in that tone and spirit, the graciousness, humility and the desire to hear wise counsel and to be surrounded by those best qualified to serve the people and the future of freedom I’ve been listening to for months.

May all of us as church leaders proclaim the gospel with such power that all who hear come to understand the true meaning of Gal. 5:1: “It is for freedom Christ set us free.” My prayer is, “God bless America, and may America once again bless You and all those You love here and around the world. May Your glory come upon us before You come in glory for us.”