SCRIPTURE
“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. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.” 1 Timothy 2:1-4 (NIV)
THOUGHTS
Despite the intensity that Americans feel about political leaders during Presidential elections, studies repeatedly show that voter participation is in decline in American elections; both nationally and at local levels. When it comes to politics, the foremost responsibility of a follower of Christ is to pray. If polarization is extreme and voter turnout is low, prayer turnout needs to be on the rise! Paul exhorts Timothy that we should pray for leaders in multiple ways - including giving thanks for them.
We are encouraged to pray that political leaders govern in a way that promotes peace, godliness, and dignity. Why? To facilitate the spread of the Gospel so that all those who don’t know Him “come to a knowledge of the truth” (v. 4).
Paul places no qualifiers on the exhortation. Christians should not restrict their prayers only to the government leaders or politicians they like or those from their own party. Who knows what God might do, especially if we pray for those leaders with whom we disagree.
PRAYER
Dear Lord, we pray for our government leaders and to thank You for them. We pray they would govern wisely to facilitate tranquil cities, states, and a nation that will provide an atmosphere to advance the spread of Your Good News into all regions of the world. We pray that our leaders would seek the right ways of governing for the public good. We pray that You would help us to see politicians as You see them—through eyes of love, grace, and compassion, so we may have a heart to pray for them regularly. Lord, today I specifically pray this for the U.S. President, Donald Trump; Oregon Governor, Kate Brown; and Newberg Mayor, Rick Rogers. May their spirits unite with yours and rise above their minds as they live and lead. In Jesus’ name, AMEN!