Prayer for each other is a key aspect of Christian faith, and it takes many different forms, with many different goals. One particular need is to pray for our leaders, for they determine many aspects of our lives and so need to be guided.
First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4
Paul’s direction to pray covers a wide range in both the type of prayer and for whom we are praying. However, he calls out one group in particular: our leaders, those in influential positions. We need to pray for guidance for all leaders and be thankful for good ones.
It’s interesting that the goal given for this prayer is that we would have peace. This peace allows us to live the way we should, which pleases God.
In addition, one of the things that results from such peace is that through these things, people come to know God.
In a way, this prayer is an evangelistic prayer. And of course, we can pray this way and believe that it is God’s will because we know His heart is that people would come to know Him.
Heavenly Father, I raise up our leaders, both secular and spiritual, that You would give them wisdom to lead well, that this would result in peace for all of us, and that in the peace that people would come to know You.
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