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In the news I saw an American politician praying for growing stock market prices. The question being asked is about a specific usage of religion in a political process. Removing 50% of the context renders the whole question meaningless, but I was told, that I'm outing the politician, who outed himself inside a stadium, at a public event which was broadcasted in news worldwide.

Of course it is not very fair to ask a question, when half of the people can build their own opinion depending on an independent viewpoint, because they know whom I'm talking about, while the other part relies on the information I give.

Isn't this considered blasphemy, according to Christian beliefs, like praying to the golden calf?

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According to Matthew 6:5 it's wrong to make prayer a public spectacle so as to draw attention to oneself. – Bruce Alderman Sep 8 '11 at 20:27
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to OP, this question shouldn't specifically name anyone. It makes it controversial and too localized, all in one go. Should questions avoid specifically naming people? – DTest Sep 8 '11 at 21:00
The question has been unlocked. Feel free to edit if you feel it necessary. I'll let the community reopen it. – El'endia Starman♦ Sep 27 '11 at 2:24

closed as not constructive by Bruce Alderman, Richard, warren, Andrew, Narnian Sep 8 '11 at 20:39

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1 Answer

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Praying TO something is different than praying FOR something, so I don't think there is a good way to make a connection to the golden calf issue.

That being said, that seems like a very selfish prayer to make. It is quite possible that such a prayer shows that that money and success (individual or corporate) has become an idol. The example prayer we have to follow in the Lords prayer directs us to pray for just what we need ... our daily bread ... and that God's will be done.

Matthew 6:9–13 (ESV)
Pray then like this:
“Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.

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+1. A much more appropriate prayer would be for the welfare and physical security of the nation or the world. If that's worked out by a booming stock market, great. If not, so be it. We should be praying for the true ends, not specific means. – Adam Robinson Sep 8 '11 at 21:42

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