Pray for AmericaSýnishorn

Pray for Our Government

Since at least the time of Nimrod (Genesis 10:8-12), humans have almost always been in one of two roles: governed or governor. This country we've been praying for did not exist until a group of people longed for and then fought for a new government. Since then, the population of those governed and the individuals governing them has grown tremendously.

What hasn't changed is a Christian's duty to governmental authorities. Paul clearly states,

I urge you, first of all, 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. -1 Timothy 2:1-2

In America, we are blessed in that our governing documents affirm our right to "live peaceful and quiet lives" as we love God and love others. Unfortunately, our ability to retain those rights is literally paper-thin; it is contingent on those currently governing America following those documents and upholding those rights. This shows all the more how important our prayerful duty is.

If you haven't already, make it a part of your regular prayer time to pray for everyone in the American government. There is much for which we can intercede on their behalf. Here are some key points:

• Thank God for those in office, many of whom have devoted decades to public service.
• Pray that God would give wisdom and compassion to all local, state, and federal leaders so that our liberties may be preserved and our lives may advance.
• Ask that God would give times of rest, renewal, and breakthrough for governmental employees, many of whom have high-stress, even high-profile positions.
• Pray that all levels, branches, and subdivisions of government would work in one accord for the good of the people of this country.
• Finally, petition God to foil the plans of all enemies – foreign and domestic – who would seek to injure people or even legally created institutions.

As we await the establishment of Jesus' government on earth, we can be salt and light within America in how we talk about, interact with, and pray for those in government.