Effective Prayer For Governmental Leadership

“Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord.” Psalm 33:12

As Christians, we want our government authorities to be aligned with God and to be prayerful about the decisions they make on our behalf. We want them to be good stewards of the tasks they have been given! The Bible provides the perfect blueprint for submitting to His lordship. Let’s commit to praying fervently
for our authorities to lean on God in their daily decisions that determine the direction of our communities, cities, states and our nation. Consider using the following scriptural guide as you lift our leaders up in prayer:

Pray for our governing officials to:

Listen to God and seek instruction from Him – “Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future.” Proverbs 19:20 (ESV)

Be slow to speak, without acting on impulse or anger – “The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint, and whoever has understanding is even-tempered.” Proverbs 17:27 (NIV)

Take everything to God in prayer – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7 (ESV)

Let the light of Christ Jesus shine through them in all they do – “When people’s lives please the Lord, even their enemies are at peace with them.” Proverbs 16:7 (NLT)
Have good character and a pure heart – “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people.” Proverbs 14:34 (ESV)

Thank God for the opportunities He has given them – “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28 (ESV)

Not become weary – “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:9 (ESV)

Persevere in trials – “God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.” James 1:12 (NLT)

Humble themselves before the Lord – “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” James 4:10 (NIV) “He must become greater; I must become less.” John 3:30 (NIV)

Do everything in humility – “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.” Philippians 2:3 (ESV)

Father God, we pray all of these things for the men and women in government positions—whether elected or appointed, administrative or judicial—across this country. We ask that You fill their hearts with compassion for their fellow citizens, that You help them align with Your will, doing things that are pleasing to You. Help them to set aside any personal interests and focus on uplifting you and redirecting this country back to You. Surround them with good advisors who are seeking Your direction. Separate them from any voices that are leading them down the wrong path. We pray You will protect them in their endeavors and prevent any evil from prospering against them in Jesus’ Name. Give them all a deep, enduring faith in You that will provide them with the strength they need in this moment. We thank You, Lord, for Your unwavering love for Your people. We praise You and know that You are still on the throne in this world, in this country, and in our hearts! Blessed be Your name! Amen!