Praying for Our Leaders

Read: 1 Timothy 2:1–4

1 I urge you, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people — 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. 3 This is good, and pleases God our Savior, 4 who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.

Praying for Our Leaders

You care about justice and righteousness in the public square. You want your nation to be a place where everyone can flourish. But where do you start? The needs are great, and your voice can seem very small.

The same was true for Timothy and the church in Ephesus. Paul urged them “first of all” to pray for their leaders — even those who actively persecuted Christians. Whatever their religious or political persuasion, leaders are entrusted by God with responsibility for the peace and security of the community and those who live there. And so, even before we vote, or volunteer in a campaign, or write to our representatives, or talk about them on social media, we should pray. This is especially important when we disagree with positions taken by our leaders.

Here are some pointers: Pray for your leaders as people as well as officials. Pray for their salvation, their spiritual growth, their families, and their physical and mental health. Pray that they will take time to understand the needs of their constituents. Ask God to bless their relationships with other leaders. If you have an opportunity to meet your leaders in person, offer to pray with them while you are together, and assure them of your continued prayers.

After you pray, ask God if there is anything he would have you do to cooperate with him in answering your prayers. You may be surprised at how God chooses to use you as you work and pray for the health of the nation.

Prayer

Thank you for the gift of government, and for those who are serving you in positions of authority. Guide them by your Spirit as they carry out their responsibilities. Help them to resist the temptation to abuse their power. Make me an effective advocate for the health of the nation, by my example as well as by my words. Amen.

This article is part of “Following the God Who Transforms,” a 10-day devotional designed to refresh and encourage believers in who God is and his heart for our nation and world. Go to Day 1.

Galen Carey, NAE vice president of government relations, is responsible for representing the NAE before Congress, the White House and the courts. He works to advance the approach and principles of the NAE document, “For the Health of the Nation.” He is also co-author with Leith Anderson of “Faith in the Voting Booth.” Before joining the NAE staff, Carey was a longtime employee of World Relief, the relief and development arm of the NAE, serving in Croatia, Mozambique, Kenya, Indonesia and Burundi. He received an M.Div. from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, and a Doctor of Ministry from McCormick Theological Seminary.