As the nation gears up for another intense political showdown, prayer has become central to the preparation for the upcoming presidential debate. Former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris, who will soon face off in a highly anticipated debate, have garnered the support of Evangelical Christians on both sides, with many urging prayer as the best way to prepare for this pivotal moment in the nation’s future.

On the eve of the debate, former President Donald Trump participated in a prayer call hosted by the National Faith Advisory Board, drawing thousands of Christians together in a united plea for divine intervention. This event featured prominent Christian leaders such as Pastor Paula White, Pastor Jentezen Franklin, Pastor Lorenzo Sewell, and Intercessors for America CEO Dave Kubal. The call underscored Trump’s commitment to the Christian community and highlighted his concerns about the country’s current direction, particularly the impact of the Biden-Harris administration’s immigration policies.

During the prayer call, Trump did not shy away from addressing what he believes are the spiritual and political stakes of the upcoming debate. He claimed that the influx of illegal immigration under the Biden-Harris administration poses a direct threat to the political power of American Christians, warning that such policies could ultimately diminish Christian influence in the voting process.

“Every day, she is flooding our country with millions and millions of criminal illegal aliens,” Trump said, referencing Vice President Harris. “She wants to make them citizens. She wants to have them vote, which will destroy the voting powers of Christian conservatives forever. And once that starts happening, and once you get those numbers involved, you lose everything that you have.”

Trump’s remarks struck a chord with many Evangelicals who have long viewed him as a defender of Christian values and freedoms. He emphasized the importance of Christian voices in the political sphere, stating, “There should be no more important voice than the voice of Christians.”

Pastor Jack Graham of Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano, Texas, took to social media to echo this sentiment, calling prayer the “best preparation” for Trump ahead of the debate. “Last night, Donald Trump gathered with thousands of Christians for prayer in preparation for the debate tonight. This is the best preparation imaginable. America needs God, and [Trump] knows it.”

Trump’s relationship with Evangelical Christians has been central to his political identity, and he has positioned himself as a candidate who will fight for Christian values. At Turning Point Action’s Believers Summit in West Palm Beach, Florida, earlier this year, he urged Christians to rally behind him once more.

“I don’t care how, but you have to get out and vote,” he urged. “Christians, get out and vote just this time. You won’t have to do it anymore. Four more years. You know what? It’ll be fixed.”

For Trump, prayer has become an essential part of his political strategy, not only to garner support but also to align himself with the values of Christian voters who seek a leader willing to defend their religious freedoms and way of life.

While Trump gathered his supporters in prayer, Evangelical Christians backing Vice President Kamala Harris also turned to prayer in anticipation of the debate. The political action committee Evangelicals for Harris sent out an email to their supporters, calling on them to pray for discernment, unity, and love as they watch the debate unfold.

“Tonight’s presidential debate is such an important moment because it will help us decide what direction we want for the future of our country,” the PAC wrote. “So, we are writing with two requests: to watch the debate and to pray and send your good thoughts.”

Evangelicals for Harris emphasized that prayer is not just about personal needs but also about seeking wisdom for the country as it makes critical decisions in the coming election. “Please pray and send your good thoughts before, during, and after the debate,” they encouraged, urging Christians to focus on specific prayer points.

The group encouraged their supporters to pray for both candidates as they prepare for the debate and to ask for clarity in their vision for the country’s future. They also asked for prayer for all viewers so that they would discern which candidate best aligns with biblical values, particularly those centered on loving one’s neighbor and protecting the vulnerable.

Furthermore, Evangelicals for Harris highlighted the importance of praying for the nation itself, asking their followers to “choose love over fear.” This message underscores a desire to see the country move forward in unity, guided by Christian principles.

For both Trump and Harris supporters, prayer serves as the ultimate preparation tool ahead of the debate, reflecting the deep spiritual connection that many voters feel toward their chosen candidates. As Christians across the nation turn to God in prayer, they are reminded of the importance of seeking divine guidance in making decisions that affect the future of the country.

In a political climate marked by division, prayer remains a common ground where believers can seek peace, wisdom, and clarity. Whether backing Trump or Harris, Evangelical Christians are coming together to ask for God’s will to be done, trusting that faith will lead them through these uncertain times.