Pray Diligently
November 4, 2024
“When a country is rebellious, it has many rulers, but a ruler with discernment and knowledge maintains order.”
Proverbs 28:2 (NIV)
Do you ever find yourself asking the question, “Can’t we all just get along?” Instead of wishing, you can rely on the Word of God. And His Word teaches that order and peace starts with discerning and knowledgeable leaders.
Notice the observation in today’s verse, Proverbs 28:2. Multiple voices result in rebellion and chaos. But a leader of discernment and wisdom recovers order.
So how do you ensure we have leaders that can do that? Notice what 1 Timothy 2:1-2 says: “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.” No matter the party they affiliate with, you are commanded by the Word of God to uphold leaders in prayer.
You might be thinking, “I didn’t vote for some of these leaders and I don’t like them. I don’t even support these leaders.” You don’t have to vote for them, like them, or support them in order to pray for them.
What should you pray for? Pray that God gives current and incoming leaders discernment and knowledge. Ask God for leaders who act wisely and make decisions carefully. One minute of prayer will do a lot more good than two hours of criticism.
In fact, the more you dislike or disagree with a leader, the more you should pray for that leader. Your prayers might bring the changes you hope for or they might not. But your prayers will definitely change you...your attitude and how you relate to others.
If you’d like to see society improve and important changes be made, start with prayer. Instead of hoping for world peace to come through someone else, you can help bring about the order that comes through discerning leadership. And that begins as you pray diligently.
Prayer: I pray for this election, Lord. Thank You for those who are seeking leadership in our country. Give them Your wisdom, knowledge and understanding to lead diligently. Draw them to You. And Lord God, Help us respect one another, confronting the division and disrespect in our political discourse with the grace, truth and love of Jesus Christ. In His Name, Amen.