Pray for Our Leaders

“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” (1 Timothy 2:1-2)

Those in authority need our prayers. Our God who controls everything in the universe, our God who established government and gives every authority its power, encourages us to prayer for our leaders. To pray that God use them to bless us with peaceful and quiet lives as we let our lights shine for Jesus. To pray that many people might hear the gospel of Jesus and be saved.

Our sinful natures object. We don’t like having people in authority over us. What if they are from a different political party? What if they aren’t Christians? What if we don’t agree with what they do? Those are real questions, but they don’t change God’s encouragement to pray. In fact, when Paul wrote these words, evil Nero was the Roman emperor. Did he need prayers? Absolutely!

So let’s pray: 

Dear God, as you encourage in your Word, we pray for our government and for our leaders. There is so much anxiety and uncertainty in our country, and we need your Word to remind us every day that you are the King of heaven and earth. All things are under your control, including the future of our country. We pray for our president, for our governor, and for all those in authority. May you fill our leaders with wisdom, humility, and strength as they lead us.

Dear Lord, we want exactly what you speak of in your Word. We want to live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. Heal the divisions in our country. End the violence. Lead us to be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ you have forgiven us.

We know that compassion and forgiveness are only possible through faith in Jesus. So we especially pray that your Word would spread to more people, so that more people may come to faith in Jesus as their Savior. May the freedom of religion continue in our country, so that Christians can continue to share your Word openly and honestly, to your glory and the salvation of souls.

Bless all our elected officials as they carry out their important roles in service to our country. Finally, bless us your people with faith in Jesus, with trust in your will, and with respect for the authorities you have placed over us. To you be all honor and glory, now and forever. In Jesus name, amen.

Pastor Nathan