PRAYING FOR THOSE IN AUTHORITY

PRAYING FOR THOSE IN AUTHORITY

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 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."

Supporting Texts: Romans 13:1, Proverbs 21:1, 1 Peter 2:13-14, Jeremiah 29:7, Daniel 2:21

INTRODUCTION:
As believers, we are instructed by Scripture to pray for those in authority. This includes government leaders, rulers, and anyone who holds a position of influence. Our prayers are not only for their guidance and well-being but also for the peace, stability, and righteousness of the nation. This study emphasizes the biblical mandate to pray for those in authority, the purpose of such prayers, and the power of interceding for leaders.

1. THE BIBLICAL MANDATE TO PRAY FOR THOSE IN AUTHORITY

Scripture clearly instructs believers to pray for those who govern over us, ensuring that we contribute to peace and righteousness in society.

a) The Command to Pray for All People (1 Timothy 2:1-2)
Paul urges that prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, especially for those in positions of authority, so that we may live in peace.

b) Authority Comes from God (Romans 13:1)
All authority is ordained by God, and as such, we are called to pray for those in authority, recognizing their role as instruments of God’s will.

c) Peace and Prosperity Through Prayers (Jeremiah 29:7)
Our prayers for those in authority are meant to bring peace and prosperity to the land, as the well-being of the nation is connected to the leadership.

d) God’s Role in Establishing Leaders (Daniel 2:21)
God establishes kings and removes them, and as believers, we are called to pray for the leaders He has placed over us.

e) Biblical Example: King David’s Prayer for His Leaders (2 Samuel 5:19)
David sought God's guidance and prayed before going into battle, acknowledging God’s authority over his leadership.

2. THE PURPOSE OF PRAYING FOR THOSE IN AUTHORITY

Praying for leaders serves to fulfill God’s purpose in society and to align with His will for the nation.

a) Promoting Peace and Stability (1 Timothy 2:2)
Praying for those in authority enables peaceful and quiet lives in godliness and holiness, benefiting society as a whole.

b) Ensuring Righteous Governance (Proverbs 21:1)
Leaders’ hearts are in God’s hands, and our prayers influence the direction of their decisions, encouraging righteousness and justice.

c) Protection and Wisdom for Leaders (James 1:5)
Prayers for wisdom, guidance, and protection enable leaders to make decisions that honor God and benefit the people they govern.

d) Aiding in the Advancement of the Gospel (Philippians 4:22)
Peaceful conditions created through prayer allow the gospel to be preached and spread freely, without hindrances from authorities.

e) Biblical Example: Prayers for King Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 2:23)
Daniel prayed for wisdom from God to interpret the king's dreams, understanding the importance of interceding for leaders’ decisions.

3. HOW TO PRAY FOR THOSE IN AUTHORITY

Our prayers for those in authority should be specific, heartfelt, and in alignment with God’s will.

a) Pray for Their Salvation (1 Timothy 2:4)
Pray that those in authority come to know Christ and be saved, as salvation is key to righteous leadership.

b) Pray for Wisdom and Guidance (James 1:5)
Pray for leaders to be guided by God’s wisdom in their decisions, ensuring they lead justly and with integrity.

c) Pray for Protection and Strength (Psalm 121:7-8)
Pray for God to protect and strengthen those in authority, keeping them safe from harm and temptation.

d) Pray for Justice and Righteousness (Psalm 72:1-2)
Pray that leaders rule with justice, fairness, and righteousness, ensuring the well-being of all people.

e) Biblical Example: Prayers for the Kings of Israel (1 Kings 3:9)
King Solomon prayed for wisdom to govern God’s people effectively, asking for discernment in making righteous decisions.

4. THE IMPACT OF PRAYING FOR THOSE IN AUTHORITY

Prayers for leaders have far-reaching effects on society, the church, and the kingdom of God.

a) Change in National Direction (2 Chronicles 7:14)
When believers pray for their leaders, it can lead to national revival, as God hears and heals the land.

b) Strengthening of Leadership (Exodus 17:11-13)
Just as Moses was supported in prayer, leaders can be strengthened when the church intercedes on their behalf.

c) Victory Over Political and Social Challenges (Psalm 33:12)
God blesses nations where righteous leadership exists, and through prayer, political and social challenges are overcome.

d) Growth and Prosperity of the Church (Acts 4:29-31)
Prayers for leaders can lead to conditions where the gospel is preached freely, and the church is able to grow and flourish.

5. CHALLENGES IN PRAYING FOR THOSE IN AUTHORITY

Despite the biblical call to pray for leaders, believers may encounter challenges in this practice.

a) Disagreement with Leadership (Romans 13:1-2)
Sometimes, leaders make decisions that we disagree with, but we are still commanded to pray for them and submit to God’s authority over their lives.

b) Praying with a Pure Heart (Matthew 5:44)
It can be difficult to pray for leaders we perceive as unjust, but we are called to pray with love, not hate, seeking God’s will for them.

c) Maintaining a Spirit of Forgiveness (Ephesians 4:32)
We must avoid bitterness or resentment when praying for those in authority, forgiving them as God forgives us.

d) Endurance in Prayer (Luke 18:1)
Praying consistently for those in authority requires endurance and persistence, trusting that God hears our prayers.

e) Biblical Example: Jesus Praying for His Persecutors (Luke 23:34)
Even when persecuted by authorities, Jesus prayed for those who crucified Him, exemplifying the ultimate attitude of love and forgiveness in prayer.

CONCLUSION:
Praying for those in authority is a crucial aspect of the believer’s responsibility. It is not just about praying for their success or peace, but also about praying for their salvation, wisdom, and righteous decisions. By praying for our leaders, we contribute to the peace and prosperity of our nation, and we align ourselves with God’s divine will for His kingdom. Let us, therefore, make it a point to intercede faithfully for those in authority, knowing that our prayers can lead to transformation, peace, and spiritual awakening.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, I lift up those in authority and ask for Your guidance and wisdom to rest upon them.

2. I pray for the salvation of leaders, that they may come to know You and rule in righteousness.

3. Father, protect those in authority, giving them strength to withstand temptation and adversity.

4. Lord, grant wisdom to our leaders in making decisions that are just and beneficial for all.

5. I ask that You grant our leaders the humility to seek Your will in all their dealings.

6. Father, bless the leaders of our nation with peace and the ability to govern with integrity.

7. Lord, I pray for the unity and prosperity of our nation, as we seek Your guidance for our leaders.

8. I pray for the church to have a strong voice in praying for those in authority, influencing change.

9. May our leaders experience divine favor as they align their decisions with Your will.

10. I declare that our prayers will lead to a nation of righteousness, peace, and spiritual awakening.