Praying for Leaders
Discipleship S.T.E.P.S.: Share
Scripture: I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. – 1 Timothy 2:1-2 (KJV)
Praying for those in authority is a spiritual discipline that crucifies our need to be right and replaces it with a desire for God’s will to be done. 1 Timothy 2 instructs us to pray for ‘all’—not just the ones we like or agree with—so that we might live peaceable lives. Often, our prayers for leaders are filled with complaint; God calls them to be filled with intercession. When you pray for a leader you disagree with, you are acknowledging that God is ultimately on the throne, not that politician or official.
Challenge yourself today: find the leader who most frustrates you or whose actions you find most objectionable and pray for them. Pray for their soul, for their wisdom, and for God to turn their heart toward truth. By doing this, you are practicing humility and trusting God’s sovereignty over the political landscape. You are not endorsing their views; you are submitting to God’s command and trusting Him to work where you cannot.
Prompt: When was the last time you earnestly prayed for a leader whose policies or personality you strongly disagree with?
Action Step: Sharing the Gospel extends to interceding for those in power, seeking the peace of our communities so the Word may spread unhindered.
Next Step: Spend five minutes today praying for a local or national leader by name.