Franklin Graham Asks God for Forgiveness Ahead of DNC: 'We are Going Backward as a Nation, Morally and Spiritually'

By Leah Marieann Klett
DNC
Supporters of Senator Bernie Sanders chant his name as they protest on the floor during the first day of the Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. July 25, 2016.  REUTERS/Mark Kauzlarich

Evangelist Franklin Graham led thousands in prayer ahead of the Democratic National Convention, asking God to give guidance, direction and wisdom to the future leaders of the United States.

Graham invited everyone to his second Facebook Live prayer event on Monday at 2 p.m., just before the convention began.

"In 1970 my father, Billy Graham, called on all Americans to raise their voices in dedication to God and to recommit to the ideals and dreams for which our country was founded," Graham said ahead of the video, which has been viewed over one million times. "I'm doing the same ...

"Our country is in serious trouble, and we need to raise our voices in prayer and recommitment to Almighty God. He's the only One who can turn things around."

The 64-year-old leader of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and Samaritan's Purse began by asking God's forgiveness for the racism, greed, and idolatry seen across the United States.

"We celebrate and flaunt sin, when instead we should be covered in sackcloth and ashes," he said. "We don't deserve your blessing, but only your judgement...We're going backward as a nation, it seems, morally and spiritually."

The evangelist went on to pray for the Lord's protection over the military and police, and asked God to give the US leaders who will honor Him and promote Biblical principles.

Graham said: "The only hope for America is a spiritual awakening...My prayer is that your gavel of judgement will not fall on this nation, but that you will give us time to repent of our sins and once again to seek your face."

This event was Graham's second Facebook Live online prayer event, as he held his first one on Thursday, just before Republican National Convention began.

"As we go to the polls this November, my prayer is that you will lead the American people to choose a president who can bring about real change, racial healing, and prosperity to all Americans," he prayed at the time. "My prayer is that we will be one nation under God, who can truly say once again, 'In God we trust.'"

As earlier reported, Graham, who is touring all 50 state capitals this year to hold prayer rallies to encourage Christians to get involved in the political process, explained that he will not endorse any presidential candidate, as he believes the only hope for the U.S. is found in God alone.

Graham echoed the sentiment during an interview with Fox News' 'On the Record" host Greta Van Susteren, explaining that while Trump addressed "most of our concerns," during a recent meeting with Evangelical leaders, he still didn't feel comfortable endorsing any candidate.

"I was asked to come to a meeting and hear Donald Trump and I am glad I did. As you know, I am not supporting or endorsing anyone this year," Graham said.

"I was invited to hear him and I am glad I did because I think he answered everyone's questions. People had good concerns, honest concerns and I think Donald Trump answered those today," he added. "I have no faith in the Republican Party, I have no faith in the Democratic Party - my only hope for this country is God."

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