Pray for Christians in politics

Kentucky has many outstanding Christian legislators, both in the House and the Senate. Kentucky Baptists will be pleased to hear that several of them are active members of KBC churches.  

These legislators are involved in politics because they believe they can pass laws that honor God and are good for people. I applaud these men and women for their hearts to serve Jesus and His mission in this way.  

I have discovered that these leaders appreciate and need our prayers. How can we pray for fellow followers of Jesus who have answered the call to serve Christ in public office? 

Here are five ways we can pray for Christians in higher office: 

1. Pray for wisdom — When God chose Solomon as Israel’s king, he gave him the opportunity to ask for God’s help. 1 Kings 3:9 records his request. He prayed “Therefore give to Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people, that I may discern between good and evil. For who is able to judge this great people of Yours?” Leaders need wisdom and understanding to carry out their roles. Christians in elected office need the knowledge of good and evil so that they may pass laws that are pleasing to God and good for people.  

2. Pray for courage — A popular business book is selling under the title, “Leadership Isn’t for Cowards.” While I have not read the book, I am convinced of the validity of the title. The complex issues of our day along with the polarization in our nation will require leaders to make decisions that will put them in the proverbial crosshairs of those who differ from them. Proverbs 31:9 instructs leaders to, “Open your mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.” 

3. Pray for their protection — Those who hold elected office spend a good deal of time away from their home and families which could make them vulnerable to temptation. 1 Peter 5:8 sounds a sober warning to believers to, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” We have an enemy who wants to destroy Christian leaders and their effective service to Jesus. Pray for Christian legislators that God will protect them from the attacks and temptations of the evil one.  

4. Pray for favor — One writer defined God’s favor as, “God giving us the ability to do something which is humanly impossible for us to do.” The Psalmist prays in Psalm 90:17, “Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands upon us; yes, establish the work of our hands!” When we consider the things Christian legislators are trying to accomplish — such as banning abortion, protecting parental rights, making common sense laws related to transgender issues, addressing poverty and violence, and more — these things would be impossible in our culture without the favor of God in their lives and work.  

5. Pray for success — Paul instructs Timothy, and followers of Jesus today, in 1 Timothy 2:1-2, “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.” We need our elected Christian leaders to be successful in developing and passing just laws so that we as Christ followers can be about the mission that Jesus has assigned to us.  

Thank you for praying for these men and women as they serve Jesus. Consider reaching out this week to Christians you know who hold public office — let them know you are praying for them. I can assure you that they will appreciate your prayers.