Praying For Politicians and Leaders

PRAYING FOR OUR POLITICIANS AND LEADERS

As I write this Canadians are going to the polls to cast their ballot for the next government.  Whatever the policies and promises of politicians – empty or meaningful - whatever has been said about each other – and words get increasingly harsh and condemning as the campaign nears the end – whoever comes to power and whatever decisions they make, we are called to pray for them.

I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity.  1 Timothy 2:1-2

As I said, I’m writing this before we know the results, intentionally so, because we want to live with God’s principles as our guide not the political fortunes or falls that take place around us.  So, whatever country you live in, join me, will you, as we pray for our politicians and leaders.

I’m thankful to the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada for some of the thoughts behind these prayers.

All powerful and all loving God.  We know that behind all governments – those that are risen up and those that are put down – You have Your hand and You work Your purposes.  We don’t always understand why things end up as they do after an election but we are so glad we can trust You through it all. 

We pray that our leaders would make decisions that contribute to the peace of all those under their authority.

We pray that political authorities who are brothers and sisters in Christ would be able to stand firm in their Christian beliefs and convictions.

We pray that those leaders who are not believers in Christ would come under the hearing of the gospel or the positive influence of other Christians in political power.

We pray that all political leaders would do their jobs well, and that they would all come to a realization that they are God’s servants.

We pray that political leaders would be able to balance their time between their position and their families well.

Most importantly, we pray that political leaders would make decisions that allow the gospel to be freely shared.

We also pray today that our judicial authorities (judges, courts, etc.) will be attuned to the need to see these freedoms protected, not only for Christians, but for all people of faith and non-faith alike. We know, Holy Spirit, that You can cause the gospel to grow even in places where the Church is persecuted and limited.

But today we are asking that You keep these freedoms in place in Canada, and in each country where others join us in prayer today.  Amen