Day 17 – Pray for Those with Authority
Scriptures to Meditate on and Pray Through –
I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, 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 integrity. – 1 Timothy 2:1-2
And another angel came and stood at the altar, having a golden censer; and there was given unto him much incense of the prayers of all the saints, that he should offer upon the golden altar which was before the throne. And the smoke of the incense of the prayers of the saints, ascended up before God out of the angel’s hand. And the angel took the censer and filled it with fire of the altar and cast it into the earth; and there were voices and thunderings and lightnings and an earthquake. – Revelation 8:3-5
How to Pray: As a Sweet Smelling Offering to God –
Not only is prayer a sweet-smelling offering to God, but it is also powerful and effective on earth. The same censer brings the prayers of the saints before God and casts blessings of fire and justice upon the earth. The prayers that go up to heaven have their share in the history of this earth. We need to take our prayer time as seriously as God takes it. Intercession is not a ritual or a pastime. It is the power of God among men and women. Be assured that your prayers enter God’s presence and are used for His glory.
What to Pray: For Those in Authority –
What faith in the power of prayer! A few weak, feeble and despised Christians were to influence the mighty Roman emperors and help in securing peace and quietness. But their faith through prayer was what made the difference. It wasn’t their own strength or power or influence but that of the Holy Spirit. Let us believe that prayer is a power that is taken up by God in His sovereignty over the world. Let us pray for our country, the president, his cabinet, congress, and its other leaders; for all those with human authority in the world; for leaders in cities or districts in which we are invested. Pray that they will lead with integrity in awe and respect for God. That they will lead with compassion, with care for the people they lead, and beyond political agendas. When God’s people unite in this, they can count upon their prayer effecting all that takes place in the seen and unseen world more than they know. Let faith in God hold this fast. Let us pray in obedience to God’s promises and principles, with His power, being thankful for our freedom in Him that is not dependent on elected officials, but on His grace poured out for us.
Add Your Own Prayers and Seek for Answers