Prayerfulness: An Essential Element in Nation Building

​by: Ame-Phil O. Saquiban

​The opening line of the Preamble of the 1987 Philippine Constitution not only affirms the sovereignty of the Filipino people but also underscores the profound need for God’s help in nation-building. The phrase “imploring the aid of the Almighty God” signifies the recognition that, alongside the strength of a sovereign people, divine guidance and intervention are essential in achieving the nation’s goals and aspirations.
 
The word “imploring” conveys fervency, desperation, and a sincere plea with a deep sense of humility. This kind of earnest pleading for God’s help requires a lifestyle of unceasing prayer that influences our day-to-day planning, decision-making, governance, and even every aspect of pakikipag-kapwa, regardless of one’s religious affiliation. Imploring God’s help in this manner goes beyond a mere activity but is a reflection of a heart that truly beseeches His support in all that we do.
 
Moreover, our continuous imploring cultivates an increasing consciousness and reverence for God, which fosters a sense of holy fear in us. Without this fear of God, people tend to commit lawlessness. Many societal issues can be rooted in the lack of divine authority and guidance in the lives of the perpetrators. It is important for every Filipino to nurture our identity as godly citizens. We have big churches, temples, mosques, and various places of worship around the country that reflect our religious heritage. We also welcome the teaching of good manners and right conduct in our schools. All these contribute to our pursuit of a holy life, which can be achieved by prayerfulness.
 
Praying is more than a religious activity. We do not bring religion by praying. We bring our nation closer to God. God Himself said, “If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” 
 
In the Philippines, the Civil Service Commission espouses Public Service Values, which include the value of spirituality. This is also aligned with our National Motto of “Maka-Diyos” (RA No. 8491). But how many Filipinos observe this pronouncement? Looking into the unending serious crimes and endemic corruption, it seems we have not lived up to our national motto. It appears that we must go beyond mere invocations and closing prayers in our activities; we must genuinely implore God’s help.
 
Indeed, we cannot build a just and humane society, establish a government that embodies our aspirations, promote the common good, conserve and develop our patrimony, and secure to ourselves and our posterity the blessings of independence and democracy without the aid of Almighty God. In all aspects of nation-building, we must consistently seek His help through prayer.
 
Mahatma Gandhi regarded prayer as the most potent instrument of action. This means that a heartfelt and sincere prayer becomes a powerful catalyst for meaningful action. It will inspire each of us to actively engage in creating positive change and to be part of the solution to the issues and challenges faced in the office, in the community, and in the nation.