God and the Governor

 “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.”
1 Timothy 2:1-2 (NIV)

Would you like to live a peaceful life? 

You might be surprised that the Bible tells us that a path to peace, godliness and holiness is to pray for your leaders. Though you can put your hope in a party, policy or a person, that would be a mistake. Our hope is in the Lord and no one else. We must prayerfully seek Him in all things. 

The Apostle Paul’s letter to Timothy gives this strong instruction: “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people.” (1 Timothy 2:1) Prayer is to be the foundation of your politics.

Jesus did not say, “My house will be called a house of politics.” He said, “My house will be called a house of prayer.” God instructs you to put first things first. When it comes to politics, your first order of business is not to criticize or complain, it is to pray. 

Paul also tells you how to pray, describing the kinds of prayers to offer. The first word Paul uses in verse one is “petitions.” It literally means “to offer a request for a felt need.” Every political leader has needs. Like all of us, leaders need wisdom to know what's right and the courage to do it. 

When you offer “intercession” it means you ask God to intervene, bringing His will on earth in someone’s life. Then Paul instructs you to pray for “all people” and “all those in authority.” You are to pray for all of your leaders whether or not you like them or agree with their policies.  

Additionally, the Bible instructs you to pray for leaders even if they do not follow Christ. When Paul wrote his letter, a cruel emperor named Nero was in power who burned Christians at the stake to entertain party guests. Yet, Paul instructs the church to pray for him anyway. 

The verse finally instructs you to offer thanksgiving. You are to be thankful for your leaders, and express your gratitude to God. When prayer is the foundation of your politics, you are on the pathway to a peaceful life. 

 Prayer: Heavenly Father, Thank you for those who lead in local, state and federal government. Minister to each of them where they are fearful, anxious or pressured. Provide for their needs. Bless them with peace today, and may Your will be done in their lives. Lord, for those who do not follow you, I pray that You would soften their hearts, and place friends and neighbors in their path who can share the life and love of Jesus. Protect them from evil and give them wisdom to govern diligently, honestly and courageously. 

In Jesus’ Name and for His sake, Amen.