“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 2:2 (NLT)
Are you up for a challenge? If we're honest, this verse in 1 Timothy can be difficult for many of us to actively apply to our lives. Think about how many political leaders have committed heaps of injustice. Kings of the world have done all kinds of terrible things. Even in Israel's history, roughly 75 percent of the kings were unrighteous rulers.
On top of that, consider the second part of the verse about living a quiet and godly life. Doesn’t the culture of our world value the exact opposite? Often, the people characterized by living a loud and obnoxious lifestyle, seasoned with ungodliness, get the most attention.
Praying for leaders who might be doing the opposite of what you stand for, and making decisions that are opposite of the ways of the world, seems challenging, right? It is, but I believe that the Lord will lead you to accept this challenge. When you pray for any leader, whether good or bad, you’re not endorsing their actions; you’re asking God to save them, guide them in His wisdom and ultimately use them for His glory. Remember, praying for a person doesn't condone their wrongdoing; it opens a door for you to partner with God to a greater degree and removes any bitterness in your heart.
As you and I navigate a world filled with imperfect authorities, let's challenge ourselves to embrace this difficult command with Jesus’ life as our best example. As you partner with the Holy Spirit, trust that your prayers won’t fall on deaf ears. Even amid the chaos of this world, God knows you, hears you, loves you, and it matters to Him that you would accept the challenge of obeying His Word.
"Remember, praying for a person doesn't condone their wrongdoing; it opens a door for you to partner with God to a greater degree and removes any bitterness in your heart."
Tip of the Day
Choose a leader that might be difficult for you to pray for, then ask God to save them, guide them in His wisdom and to use them for His glory.
Prayer
Father, embolden my heart to embrace the challenge of praying for leaders, even when their actions are contrary to Your ways. May they repent of their sins, turn to You and discover Your undeserved grace, just like You gave to me. Help me live a quiet and godly life that is patterned after the lifestyle of Jesus. In His name alone, amen.
Pause and Reflect
Reflecting on the challenge of praying for leaders, how does this practice make you look more like Jesus?
In your experience, how does praying for leaders, even those whose actions may contradict your values, impact your own heart?
On a scale of 1 to 10 (10 being the most difficult), how hard is this challenge for you personally and why?
