Praying for Governments
by T. L. Wiens
I must confess to having a hard time praying for political leaders when I dislike so many of the policies they instate. But it is a command.
David of the Bible demonstrated respect for King Saul in ways that to me often seemed to go beyond reasonable. David understood that God appointed Saul and therefore, as God’s appointed, David had an obligation to respect that.
And today, like Saul and David were appointed Kings over Israel by God’s authority, our leaders are appointed by God.
Romans 13:1 (NIV)tells us so.
“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.”
I Timothy 2:1-4 (KJ) says:
“I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.”
Not only do I need to pray but I need to give supplications, prayers, intercessions and thanks. That’s a tough request when I struggle with political agendas and policies that are contrary to all I believe to be Truth. Surely God doesn’t want me to agree with these things that are contrary to His Word?
What are supplications, prayers intercessions and thanks? It is clear that I must investigate these to truly understand how to be obedient to God’s command in this area.
To be continued next Monday.