The average attention span in the year 2000, according to a recent study, was 12 seconds. In 2013, it was eight seconds. In comparison, the average attention span of a goldfish is nine seconds. Twenty-five percent of teenagers forget major details of close friends and family members.

O Lord, hear; O Lord, forgive. O Lord, pay attention and act.

Daniel 9:19

Thankfully, the Lord’s level of attentiveness is never ending, and nothing goes without God’s notice. “Why, even the hairs of your head are all numbered.” (Luke 12:7) In today’s passage, Daniel asks God to hear, forgive, pay attention to, and act on behalf of His people. He recognized the sin of the nation of Israel and interceded to beg for God’s mercy.

Be aware of your own sin, as well as that of Americans. Then adopt Daniel’s earnest plea as your own this New Year. Ask God to hear when you pray. Confess your sins and request His pardon. Then invite your Heavenly Father to notice and act on behalf of America. Plead for Him to raise up godly citizens as well as a God-fearing leadership who will pay full attention to Him.

Recommended Reading: Luke 11:5-13