An Election Year Prayer
In 2016, with the election looming and a divisive campaign in full swing, I was living overseas and it was disconcerting to open up the internet and social media to see the rhetoric from both sides. I made a commitment to stop and pray when I saw something shared about the election. That was a big commitment, given how prevalent this content was, but personally it helped me to keep my focus properly aligned as the days passed. The focus for all believers should be more focused on things of greater significance.
Now in 2020, things are the same or worse as far as the information related to the election and candidates that is being put in front of us every day goes. For myself, because I’m currently in the United States and not overseas, it is much worse than what I normally experience. It is very difficult to get away from these daily distractions. There is just a short time to go before the election, but as a Christian, I want to commit to do more praying than reading, posting and reposting over the course of the next few weeks. If you want to join me in praying for all of the candidates and for those who are currently serving in leadership in roles in government, I have put together a few things you might find helpful.
Verses to pray through:
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)
This is a good place to start with all of us. God desires these things for all people, but specifically sets apart those in authority over us. Let us all have peaceful and quiet lives of godliness and holiness. All of our lives would be better if we reflected this prayer and our lives would be better if our leaders reflected this as well.
Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God. So anyone who rebels against authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and they will be punished. For the authorities do not strike fear in people who are doing right, but in those who are doing wrong. Would you like to live without fear of the authorities? Do what is right, and they will honor you. The authorities are God’s servants, sent for your good.
Romans 13:1–4 (NLT)
As an adult, I have lived under many presidents appointed by God over my country, Bush 41, Clinton, Bush 43, Obama, and now Trump. The Bible says these leaders are God’s servants, sent for our good. We can pray for them to act as God’s servants and for our own hearts as we submit to our authorities.
He changes times and seasons; he removes kings and sets up kings; he gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding.
Daniel 2:21
All the people benefit from a ruler who is wise and understanding, we can pray that those appointed for our country would be filled with wisdom and understanding as they lead.
Things to pray for your leaders
- Salvation — We all need Jesus — Our leaders are no different — Acts 4:10–12
- Courage — It is difficult to make the right choice, they need courage — 2 Samuel 10:12
- Humility — Leaders lead best from a position of humility — 1 Peter 5:5
- Discernment — To know when and when not to act — 1 Kings 3:9
- Teachability — To learn and grow in their ability to lead — Proverbs 9:9
- Perseverance — To persist through trial — 2 Timothy 4:7
- Self-control — To not react, but to respond — Proverbs 25:28
- Integrity — To hold to a moral standard — Psalm 25:21
Originally published at http://seeinggodclearly.wordpress.com on September 26, 2020.