Today we are inaugurating the 45th President of the United States. Regardless of how you voted, your political views, or your opinions of those in positions of power, we are all called to pray for those in authority. Enjoy this excerpt from The Battle Plan for Prayer by Stephen Kendrick and Alex Kendrick about how to pray for all who are stepping into leadership today.
Pray for Those Neglected
While we have gladly spent time praying for family, friends, coworkers, and gospel workers, the Bible commands us to pray for another group of people—those often neglected. It may not be the type of “neglect” that comes to your mind. These people aren’t neglected by a world’s standard but from a prayer standard.
Who are these people? Politicians and persecutors.
Throughout the Bible, God singles out these two groups of people and expects and commands our prayers for them.
First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. 1 Timothy 2:1-2
But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. Matthew 5:44
Again we can look to Jesus’ example on this tough subject. Jesus used some of His final breaths on the cross to pray for His own persecutors who reviled and mocked Him.
But Jesus was saying, “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.” And they cast lots, dividing up His garments among themselves. Luke 23:34
Jesus’ prayer is selfless. His prayer is not intended to change their actions for His own gain, but simply to plead to the Father on their behalf.
While this day’s prayer focus may not be the list you are most eager to begin, it is a clear biblical command. That’s why we must address it. Select at least one politician or person in authority for whom you can pray. It may not even be one that you respect or like. Even if they think fundamentally different than your side of the ticket, wouldn’t you desire to see God still do a work in their lives?
Consider praying the following prayers for those in authority:
That they would be blessed, protected, and prosperous in their role. (3 John 2)
Lead with honor, respect, wisdom, compassion, and godliness. (1 Tim. 2:2)
Watch over, protect, lead, and serve those in their care. (Heb. 13:17)
Come to the knowledge of Christ and surrender to His lordship. (1 Tim. 2:4)
Establish rules and laws that honor God’s law and strengthen families and cities. (Deut. 10:13)
Submit to the authority and ways of God and His Word daily. (1 Pet. 2:13-17)
Hate evil, pride, injustice, and turn away from Satan’s lies and schemes. (1 Pet. 5:8)
Become hard workers who faithfully fulfill their duties. (Prov. 6:6-11; Luke 12:42-44)
Use good judgment, pursue justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God. (Mic. 6:8)
Be a godly example in their roles and responsibilities. (Josh. 24:15)
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The Battle Plan for Prayer
equips believers to develop their own prayer strategy and be specific and strategic in prayer. This 8-session study features teaching on the topics of: what prayer is and is not, why God wants us to pray, specific areas of prayer, specific strategies for prayer, and more.
