Real Help

God’s Word is clear that, as believers, we are called to pray for those in authority. First Timothy 2:1-2 urges us to “pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity.” More than ever, our elected officials need our prayers. These men and women are making monumental decisions that affect the future of our nation.

…But what if I disagree with the person’s political party?

The Word doesn’t tell us to pray only for those we agree with. First Timothy 2:1-2 makes it clear that we’re to pray for all people, including (and especially for) those in authority.

…But what if the person stands for ungodly things?

What better time to pray than when the person is in error? The Hebrew people lived in this very predicament under the leadership of King Nebuchadnezzar. This man—this heathen—answered to no one. There were no checks and balances governing him. And yet, God reached him. In the middle of the night, God showed up, shook him to the core and redirected his life (Daniel 2). Once confronted with the greatness of God, the king fell on his face and declared: “Truly, your God is the greatest of gods, the Lord over kings” (verse 47). If God could reach King Nebuchadnezzar, He can certainly reach our elected officials.

…But what if the person makes bad decisions?

This is exactly why our government leaders need our prayers. Proverbs 21:1 tells us, “The king’s heart is like a stream of water directed by the Lord; He guides it wherever He pleases.” We can pray in faith for our leaders to make wise, godly decisions that benefit our entire country and even the world.

…So what should I pray?

Together, we can unite to stand in faith for our leaders. We can pray that they would:

• Know God

• Accept Jesus as their Lord and Saviour

• Hear the voice of the Holy Spirit

• Obey the voice of the Holy Spirit

• Desire to know, read, study and apply the Word of God

• Spend time in prayer

• Learn the principles of faith

• Possess wisdom

• Live with integrity

• Lead with strength

• Speak plainly

• Exhibit the fruit of the spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control)

• Have discernment

• And receive wise counsel.

God has not given up on our country or on any individual person…and neither should we. Nothing is beyond the control of our amazing and loving God. As we welcome newly elected officials into office, let us commit to pray diligently for them—that they will make known the One true God and His Son, Jesus Christ (John 17:3).