“I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone – for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” 1 Timothy 2:1-2 (NIV)

I tucked away the last of the Christmas decorations. My house appeared tidy again after the Christmas disarray. I began to dust the furniture and shelves when I came to the Nativity set. I had purposely left it out as a reminder to celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus all year long.

I reflected on the recent holidays and sweet joy filled my heart. My thoughts leapt forward, “What is the next celebration coming up?” I realized it is the inauguration of our 44th President.

I gazed at the Nativity scene. Several times during December I heard the familiar verse from Isaiah 9:6, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Then I recalled the next verse that speaks of Jesus’ role in government—an eternal government. “Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this” (Isaiah 9:7, NIV). What joy! What peace to know that Jesus is King of kings and Lord of lords – that is a cause to celebrate no matter what country we live in.

This month, the United States is inaugurating a new President. It’s a time to observe and utilize our religious freedoms. Let’s start by praying for our newly elected President and all government officials. Let’s honor God’s command found in our key verse, “I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone – for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” As followers of Christ who is the Prince of Peace, let’s honor, respect and pray for our President.

As I look at the baby in my nativity manger, I remember that He is not only the King of kings and Lord of lords. He is the Wonderful Counselor who guides Presidents, leaders, and you and I as well. Let’s lift them up in prayer.

Dear Lord, I pray for our national leaders. Allow their hearts to be open to Your wisdom and guidance. Remind me to pray for them fervently and frequently. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

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Related Resources:

Do You Know Him?



i am not but i know I AM by Louie Giglio

Pierced By the Word: 31 Meditations for Your Soul by John Piper

Visit Susanne’s blog

Application Steps:

Make a note on your calendar, weekly or monthly, to pray for our leaders in government. Pray for them specifically by name. Pray for wise decisions as they work with a myriad of problems including terrorism and the economy.

Reflections:

Do I complain about our government or pray for it?

In what issues should I pray for our government?

Power Verses:

Romans 13:1, “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.” (NIV)

Daniel 2:19-21, “During the night the mystery was revealed to Daniel in a vision. Then Daniel praised the God of heaven and said: ’Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever; wisdom and power are his. He changes times and seasons; he sets up kings and deposes them. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning.’” (NIV)

Revelation 19:11,16, “I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True . . . On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.” (NIV)

© 2009 by Susanne Scheppmann. All rights reserved.