Even If You Didn’t Vote For Them…
We are all pretty good at complaining about our politicians or about the results of elections if our preferred candidate doesn’t get elected. What if we took the time spent complaining to instead do what Paul asks of us in his letter to Timothy?
I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. (1 Timothy 2:1-4).
Do you notice how Paul doesn’t say to pray for kings and all those in authority who we agree with or who we elected? He didn’t say that, he said to “pray for kings and ALL those in authority” (emphasis mine).
How Should We Pray For Our Leaders?
So now that we all agree that we should be praying for our leaders, how should we be praying for them? I found a great article that outlines some of the things that we should be praying for when praying for our government leaders:
- Love of the Truth (2 Thessalonians 2:10-12)
- To have Wisdom (Proverbs 4:5-8, Psalm 119:98-100)
- Display Courage and Integrity (Proverbs 10:9, Proverbs 11:3)
- Be Sharp in Insight and Quick in Discernment (1 Thessalonians 5:21-22, 1 John 4:1)
- Surround Themselves with Good Staff and Advisors (Psalm 1:1, Proverbs 29:12, Proverbs 24:6)
- For God’s Protection over Themselves and their Families (Psalm 46:1-3)
There you go, next time your having a whinge about your elected politicians remember Paul’s words to us and instead of complaining about them, pray for them.