Kings and Presidents

11-6-2012 by Boyd Bailey “I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness” (1Timothy 2:1–2). Kings and presidents come and go, but while in office they require much prayer. Public servants need sincere supplications from servants of the Lord. These leaders of nations have the power to inflict harm or uphold justice. They can pass laws that lead to fiscal irresponsibility or wisely legislate financial protection for the country. It is God’s response to our prayers, not pundits, who reveals the wisest choices. Our president is a mere man, but he is a man under the authority of almighty God. His mandate is not first from earthly man, but first and foremost from his Father in heaven. Rulers, who recognize and embrace their accountability of the temporal to the eternal, rule most wisely. Pray our president will lead us to live faithful and contented lives under Christ’s lordship. Pray our commander in chief will receive inspiration and instruction from the Commander in Chief. Pray for our president to look into the future with eyes of faith and create a culture of character for our children and grandchildren. Indeed, your prayers for the president are “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” (1 Timothy 2:3–4 NASB). Prayer: What day of the week can I take five minutes and pray for our president to have the wisdom to make the best decisions and the courage to follow through, regardless of the consequences? Related Readings: Nehemiah 1:11; Ecclesiastes 3:12–13; Romans 13:1–7; 1 Peter 2:9–13