Praying for those in Government
Praying for those in Government
It is easy to criticize those in government, especially those whose policies differ from our own. I’m aware that many of those policies concern life and death issues, so there is no attempt here to pretend they are unimportant. But perhaps there is something more we can do than just disparage them.
I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. As you make your requests, plead for God’s mercy upon them, and give thanks. Pray this way for kings and all others who are in authority, so that we can live in peace and quietness, in godliness and dignity. – 1 Timothy 2:1-2 (NLT)
A number of years ago a chaplain of the United States Senate was asked by a visitor, “Do you pray for the senators?” He replied, “No, I look at the senators, and then I pray for the country!” Most of us understand his point all too well. Yet, if some in government are corrupt, all the more reason to pray for them. Our prayers for those in authority can included requests that they govern well, that they seek God’s guidance in their decision making, and that they do not give into the temptations that come with such important and powerful offices. The result of our prayers, when answered, will be that those who are governed will be able to “live in peace and quietness, in godliness and dignity.”
So here’s the big question – are you praying for those who govern over you? Do you take time to plead on behalf of those elected or appointed officials whose decisions have an effect on your life and the lives of your fellow citizens? How about those whose political views disagree with your own? Are you teaching church members to do the same? If not, why not start right now?
PRAYER THOUGHT: Father, show me how to pray for those who govern over me. I want them to lead well, to seek Your face, and to show grace to those whom they serve.
By Barry L. Davis
The Chaplain sounds spiritual but wrong. I agree with you. We must pray for those in authority over us. It bothers me to some degree that our citizens in both countries (Canada and the USA) including believers have no problem tearing down our leaders. Believers have a right to judge actions but we have no right to judge people. Your president is being judged every day by people, including believers which is very sad and in my opinion biblically dangerous. Even David had the good sense not to touch King Saul. Have we learned anything. Seems not.