Praying for our Governing Authorities
This week all across the United States, whether locally or nationally, inaugurations have taken place for incoming mayors, city council members, representatives, senators, judges, and other governing authorities as they begin or continue their work as public servants. It is a good reminder to all of us as disciples of Jesus Christ that we are called to pray for them. 1 Timothy 2:1–4 says, “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. This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.”
Here are a few ways we can pray weekly for those “who are in authority” whether we are fond of them or not:
1. Prayer for Wisdom and Guidance: "Heavenly Father, we lift up our governing authorities to You, knowing that all authority is established by Your sovereign will. Grant them wisdom to discern truth, courage to uphold justice, and humility to serve with integrity. May they seek Your guidance in every decision and lead with hearts aligned to Your will, for the good of all people. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.”
2. Prayer for Justice and Peace: “Lord of all nations, we pray for our leaders to uphold justice and work for peace. May they protect the weak, defend the oppressed, and promote laws that honor Your righteousness. In times of division, guide them to be peacemakers who strive for unity. May Your Spirit work through them to bring about the flourishing of society in accordance with Your kingdom. In Jesus’ name. Amen.”
3. Prayer for Strength and Integrity: "Gracious God, strengthen our leaders with endurance for the tasks before them. Keep them from corruption and selfish ambition, and fill them with a spirit of service and compassion. May they govern with integrity, reflecting Your truth and mercy in their decisions. Equip them to be faithful stewards of the authority entrusted to them. We pray this in the name of Jesus Christ, our King. Amen.”
4. Prayer for Repentance and Renewal: "Merciful Father, We confess the shortcomings and failings of our leaders, as well as our own. We pray that they would seek Your forgiveness where they have gone astray and turn to You for renewal. Transform their hearts to prioritize Your justice and mercy, and help us to support them through prayer and encouragement. May Your grace sustain them in their leadership, through Christ our Redeemer. Amen.”
5. Prayer for Protection and Provision: "Almighty God, We ask for Your protection over those in authority. Shield them from harm, guard their families, and provide them with wise counselors and advisors. May they recognize their need for Your guidance and seek it daily. Help them to lead with grace and compassion, and may their governance reflect Your character. In Jesus' name. Amen.”
Let’s see how the Lord responds to our prayers!
Pastor Jeff
“ Grace is the good pleasure of God that inclines Him to bestow benefits upon the undeserving.”