How and why should we pray for our leaders?

Answer

The concept of praying for our leaders is not unique to democratic nations, and it did not begin with the United States’ National Day of Prayer. The Bible contains many commands to pray for our leaders—national and local, secular and religious.

Paul wrote in 1 Timothy 2:1–4, “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.” God told the Israelites in exile to pray for Babylon: “Seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the LORD for it because if it prospers, you too will prosper” «And seek the peace of the city whither I have caused you to be carried away captives, and pray unto the LORD for it: for in the peace thereof shall ye have peace. », (Jeremiah 29:7). Romans 13:1 says, “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.” Paul requested prayer “for all the Lord’s people” and for himself that he would speak the gospel boldly (Ephesians 6:18-20).

Prayer is important. And it seems the Bible makes special mention of praying for those in positions of authority. Such authorities include government officials (international, national, and local) and pastors, church elders, school boards, school principals, employers, and the like.

We do not pray for our leaders simply because we are commanded to. Praying for them makes practical sense. Our leaders canAffecting the conditions we live in can have an impact on our families, churches, workplaces, cities, and countries. When those in authority obey the will of God, it is easier to “live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness” «for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. », (1 Timothy 2:2). When evil men are in authority, our prayers for them are just as necessary, as illustrated by William Tyndale’s last words as he was being burned at the stake: “Lord, open the King of England’s eyes.”

Additionally, we do not pray for our leaders solely for our own benefit. Leadership can be a challenging task. James 3:1 says, “Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.” Leaders bear a significant responsibility to their followers. They are often the recipients of criticism and the go-to individuals in a crisis. If they are leading effectively, they are living their lives in service. We pray for them because we acknowledge the magnitude of their task and appreciate their willingness to lead.

So, how should we pray for our leaders? Firstly, if we are unsure whether they know Jesus, we should pray for their salvation. Regardless of whether our leaders are Christians, we should pray that God will guide them as they lead us. We should pray that they be wise and discerning and surrounded by helpful advisers. We understand that God has placed our leaders in authority over us «Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. », (Romans 13:1), and we can ask Him to use them as He wills. We should also pray for their protection. When praying for pastors or ministry leaders, we can pray for them to have strength.

It is crucial to uphold our leaders in prayer during spiritual battles and to stay uplifted in the Lord. Let us intercede for their families, who may feel under constant observation and carry additional burdens.

In essence, we ought to lift up our leaders to God in prayer, requesting His guidance in their lives, assistance for those beside them, and that their leadership may bring advantages to their followers.