Theme: All Those in Authority
“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
Dear Praying Friends,
Paul understood that our leaders need our prayers. From our President to our Pastors and “all those in authority,” Paul connects these prayers to pursuing a peaceful life “in all godliness and holiness.” (1 Timothy 2:2, NIV)
Whether governmental, spiritual or vocational, the Bible teaches that those in authority are held to a higher responsibility and must give account to how they have used their influence and power. (Luke 12:48; Hebrews 13:17; James 3:1; Romans 14:12; Matthew 12:36-37) Our leaders need God’s wisdom and often are fighting spiritual battles we know nothing about.
As Daniel declared, “He changes times and seasons; He deposes kings and raises up others” (Daniel 2:21). Every shift of leadership, every election result, every policy passed or delayed ultimately unfolds under the Lord’s sovereign hand. He is never caught off guard by who holds office. We can rest in knowing that history moves in only one direction—toward His redemptive plan and purposes and the establishment of His Kingdom. Let us worship the God who rules over all and trust Him with the outcomes of this season.
As we intercede, let’s pray that righteousness and salvation would rain down across our nation (Isaiah 45:8) and that every form of spiritual darkness and deception would be pushed back (Ephesians 6:12). Ask the Lord to raise up leaders who walk in integrity and humility while removing ungodly influences from positions of power (Daniel 2:20-21). May our prayers bless our nation, our churches, and our communities with wisdom, peace, and truth (Proverbs 11:11; 1 Peter 2:9; Revelation 5:10).
Consider sending your pastor or other leaders in your life a message of encouragement and asking how to pray for them. Can you imagine a governmental leader receiving this type of message from a believer with no agenda but to lift them up and pray for them? Let’s model a Christlike heart to those in authority and commit to lifting them up in prayer as God brings them to mind.
If and when they do not have a biblical worldview, we can pray for their hearts to be conformed to God’s will and purposes. Instead of complaining about our leaders, let’s take our petitions to the Lord on their behalf and combat poor leadership with the power of prayer!
Blessings to you this November!
Ursula Kemp
Pray for Ohio
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