Remember To Pray For Our Leaders
I’m certain that there are a number of people who are dismayed that Barack Obama is being inaugurated as the 44th president of these United States today. Then again, I’m just as certain that some people have felt that way with a number of presidents before him, dating back to the founding of our country.
As an American, I am thrilled that we live in a country where we can vote for our elected officials and that our voices are heard. There are many Christians around the world who have no say in politics, having to accept whatever the government dishes out, including threats to their freedoms, to their way of life, even to their very lives.
My eyes are wide open to the political landscape of our country, but more so to its spiritual condition, which is ailing. Many have forsaken the tried and true path and are relying on human strength and ingenuity. God has been marginalized throughout society, making it difficult — though not impossible — for Christians to stand on what they believe.
As a follower of Jesus Christ, I have learned the importance of praying for our elected and appointed leaders whether I like them or not or whether I approve or disapprove their policies. I certainly do not have a problem with people opposing those who are in power, but as a believer I know that it is my duty to prayerfully intercede on their behalf.
Somehow, praying for those in authority lessens the sting of their leadership, while redirecting one’s eyes to their personal need for God.
The apostle Paul was no stranger to living in and visiting areas of the world where Christians had no voice, even to the point where their lives were threatened if it became known that they followed Jesus Christ. However, by the leading of the Holy Spirit, Paul urged believers to pray for those in authority:
1I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;
2For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
3For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;
4Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. (1 Timothy 2:1-4)
The main reason for those prayers? Why, entirely selfish: “…that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.”
At precisely noon today, President George W. Bush will be taking off from DC and winging his way to Texas. At that same time, President Barack Obama will be sworn in as our nation’s president, continuing a string of peaceful leadership change that dates back to over two centuries.
Just as Bush has been raised up and will now move on, Obama will one day see the end of his presidency too.
In the meantime, God is watching over the affairs of mankind, orchestrating events as He sees fit until that day when His Lordship will reign over all of the earth.
That, my friends, will be one “inauguration” day which I will be glad to see!
Popularity: 4% [?]
"He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." (Micah 6:8)
Lillie Ammann | January 20th, 2009 at 11:19 pm #
Matt,
I’m been praying for the new president since the election and will continue to do so.
And I, too, look forward to the great “inauguration day!”
Lillie Ammanns last blog post..Religious Freedom Day
MattK | January 21st, 2009 at 5:28 am #
I know you have, Lillie! You’ve inspired me to keep at it too.
I was thinking that I should have used the word coronation instead of inauguration for the Lord, but He is already King. I’ll be glad when all of the political nonsense is no more, that is for certain.
MattKs last blog post..A Peaceful Transfer Of Power
Karen, author of "My Funny Dad, Harry" | January 21st, 2009 at 6:38 am #
This is definitely something I need to start doing. It’s one of those things I know I should do, but just forget. I have more pressing matters to pray about.
I have given you the lemonade award because your blog is so uplifting. Pick it up at http://zemeks.blogspot.com/2009/01/thanks-angel-for-lemonade-award.html
Matt | January 21st, 2009 at 10:00 am #
Thanks for the award, Karen. I’m busy with a project right now but I’ll see what I can do with spreading the word later on.
I understand being busy! Oftentimes, I find myself shooting up a quick prayer to the Lord, especially as I read the news. I think, “Oh, Lord!” is sometimes sufficient though I do know the need to add a few words of intercession too. President Obama needs it!
rainer | January 22nd, 2009 at 2:31 pm #
Hallo,
the idea to pray for one’s leader is appealing, and I would say, I see no reason, why not to do it.
On the other hand should religion and power be separated. G.W always talked always of God, but in my opinion he ordered an unjust war, in which many civilians lost their lifes. Religion should not be used to gather people behind false goals…..
Matt | January 23rd, 2009 at 7:07 am #
Rainer, thank you for your comment. The Bible doesn’t tell us to pray for our leaders in order that every action of theirs be blessed or approved by God. Leaders are still responsible for their own actions while believers are responsible to intercede on their behalf.
Once I pray, I leave the results in God’s hands. They don’t always turn out the way that I want or expect, but I’ve done my part: obeyed.
Carol Rose | January 24th, 2009 at 4:16 pm #
We all need to continue to pray. It’s the only thing left to do. Our leaders all need God’s guidance. This was a great post. Thank you.
Matt | January 25th, 2009 at 7:23 am #
You are welcome, Carol. The events of this past week are reminding me to keep praying. It’ll be interesting to see how God chooses to intervene.