Praying for Our Leaders | Day 27 Freedom Season Devotional

 Scripture: 1 Timothy 2:1–2
First of all, then, I urge that requests, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made in behalf of all people, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. (NASB)

I believe that praying for our leaders is perhaps one of the most challenging things we are called to do as believers. The struggle to pray God’s heart is very real. Sometimes we don’t think about praying for our leaders, and other times we simply don’t want to. 

It’s easy to pray for our leaders when we agree with their policies and the decisions they are making on our behalf. We pray for their protection and for them to be led by the Holy Spirit in their decisions. 

But what about when they are not our choice for the position they hold? What do our prayers look like then? Is it some form of, “Lord, just get us through the next four years?” Or worse yet, “Get ‘em, Jesus!” This is not what Paul had in mind when he told us to pray for our leaders.

The simple truth is this: as mature believes we are instructed to pray for our leaders and those in authority, If you aren't sure of what His heart is for them, ask Him. Praying for their protection, for them to come to know Him and be led by His spirit is a good place to start. And don’t forget local and state leaders. It’s easy to focus on national leaders and situations and be unaware of local and state issues. They need our prayerful attention as well.

Praying for our leaders at every level is not only our civic duty but our responsibility as mature sons and daughters of God. 

Unity begins with prayer. When we intercede for our leaders instead of criticizing, we open the door for God’s wisdom to prevail.

Reflection: Do you know who your city, county and state leaders are by name? Do you know who your US Senators and House Representatives are? Who in authority can you pray for today?

Prayer: Father, guide our leaders with Your truth. Protect them, their families, their staff and their security teams. Let those advisors who have the ears of our leaders have Your words on their lips. Let Your wisdom and discernment prevail as they lead our cities, counties, states and nation. Show me Your heart for them and how You want me to pray for them. Amen.