Praying for Leaders: A Call for Gratitude and Grace

November is traditionally the month we work hard to remind ourselves of all we have to be grateful for. Then the day after Thanksgiving the world goes into a frenzy to make out shopping and wish lists of things we may or may not need. Personally, every day I am trying to focus on one thing, tangible or intangible to thank God for providing. It is a painful truth that in all of our gratitude, we still find a reason to grumble. 

I am exceedingly aware that about 50% of this country will be disappointed in the election results (not to mention the World series). No matter the outcome, I must remind myself that God is still the King of Kings; He is still sovereign and ruler of my heart and my destiny. 

The fact remains that God has appointed the rulers, and He has given us a very specific reminder 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. This is good and pleases God our Savior, who wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth”

I Timothy 2:1-3

We are actually told to not just pray for them but to give thanks for them. Ouch! How can we do that? Well, we can give thanks for them because, having ‘them’ in leadership gives us an opportunity to pray more. It gives us the opportunity to show more grace than we can without divine intervention.  It gives us the opportunity to put our faith in God not in man. 

And why are we asked to pray for ‘kings and all who are in authority?  So we can live peaceful and quiet lives, marked by godliness and dignity. Sadly, godliness and dignity are two things sorely missing in our politicians who are running for office. Maybe we need to pick up the pace in our prayers a bit.  

I encourage you, every time you see a political add, billboard, or yard sign, send up a quick prayer for that person. They need wisdom and guidance. They need grace with accountability. They need the Way the Truth and the Life.

Lord Jesus, Please help us know how to pray for our leaders. Please give them wisdom and guidance in leading our cities, counties, states, and our country. Please remove any selfish ambition and replace it with humble responsibility to the people of our land and to You. Please help them to rule in a way that brings about a peaceful and quiet life.  In Your Precious Name, Amen