Those We Pray For: Our Leaders

We pray for many circumstances, people, and frequently for one particular group: our leader.  These individuals are of great importance to the Lord God, and we would be wise to reflect on why the Lord's Apostles prayed as they did. For this article, we will reflect on the Spirit’s instruction in 1 Timothy 2:1-4.

I exhort therefore, first of all, that supplications, prayers, intercessions, thanksgivings, be made for all men; for kings and all that are in high place; that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and gravity. This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; who would have all men to be saved, and come to the knowledge of the truth.

Those mentioned in this select passage have a common role. They are leaders in some form or fashion. So what must we consider as we pray for our leaders?

All Men

The first thing we must do is pray for all men. Why would we need to pray for all men? From a leadership focus, we would recognize each man is designated by God as a leader in his home (cf. Gen 3:16; Eph 5:22-33; 6:4). I will concede that this term anthropon would address more than just husbands and fathers, but rather extends even to the collective mankind. However, let us remember who the most immediate localized leaders of mankind are–leaders in the home.

A man’s decisions, actions, and words have lasting effects on generations.  Every Christian must pray for every man who leads in his home and even in his workplace. All men need the prayers of the faithful on their behalf. Husbands and fathers have a unique responsibility that is difficult but full of potential blessings. Pray for their resolve, commitment, health, and success as they seek to lead their families in the old paths to the glory of God. Leaders in each family have direct, constant influence over those under their charge. This is a greater influence than the leaders we will address in the balance of this writing. Pray for all mankind, but remember the leaders of mankind who will shape the direction of families.

Civic Leaders

Next, we must pray for our civic leaders. All civic leaders need the prayers of the righteous. This includes even unrighteous leaders. For some, this may seem difficult, especially when some leaders advance evil policies. We must remember that the governing authorities are given by God and serve as His ministers (cf. Romans 13:1-7). God uses even wicked leaders for the good of His people at times (cf. Romans 8:28). He used Pharaoh in the time of Joseph. He used Nebuchadnezzar and Cyrus to do good to God’s people even in times of punishment. Jehovah rules in the kingdoms of men (cf.Dan 4:17).

One might ask, how can I pray for a wicked leader? Well, I would recommend that we pray that our leaders will succeed in actions that bring glory to God, and allow us (the Lord’s people) to “lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and gravity.” We can also pray that our leaders will fail miserably in any actions they take that blaspheme the name of God or promote evil injustice. The imprecatory Psalms in our Bible are inspired and belong there, lest we forget. Let us remember that our leaders and the world at large needs to be remembered in prayer by the church of Christ.

Elders

Brethren, we must pray for our elders. They are charged with oversight over the congregation they are a part of. They deal with many things that you and I will never hear of. Is this because they are a secretive group lurking in the shadows? No. It comes down to this: we, the members of the congregation, do not need to know all the things that require their attention because some is better kept private for the sake of the parties involved. Why not pray for the unknown situations that our shepherds are dealing with, lifting them before our Father who knows the situation.  

With this in mind, let us give them some grace when we think they are not being attentive to something. Not one member of the congregation knows the whereabouts of another average member on any given day at all times.  We do not know how many phone calls you made or received. We do not know how many times you visited widows or shut-ins. We do not know how many Bible studies you had with a prospect. Let us remember that our elders are responsible for each soul under their care. Hebrews 13:17 reads, “Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit to them: for they watch in behalf of your souls, as they that shall give account; that they may do this with joy, and not with grief: for this were unprofitable for you.” As we seek to make their work joyful with our submission, obedience, and right behavior, we need to make sure we are praying for these good men in our congregation.

When we pray for our elders, we ought also to pray for the elders of other congregations. They need it! Many elderships are struggling with which way to go. Some are troubled, some are slipping, some may dissolve; all the more reason they need to have their names brought before the throne of God. It would be appropriate to take the time and let them know that you appreciate their work and that you are praying for them. Just knowing that someone is praying for you can change your day.

God says it is good and acceptable when we pray for all of these leaders. He also explains there is another added motive in our prayers for men, kings, and those in authority over us. God desires all men to be saved. Perhaps we should be praying that good opportunities will arise to reach men with the Gospel. The result will lead one, if not more souls, to Jehovah. When we pray for kings, we ought to pray that we will reach them with the Gospel, which in turn will save a soul, but also can affect the land he rules.  When we pray for our elders, we pray for their steadfastness, commitment, and strength to withstand all the attacks they face. Finally, remember the value of prayer. “The supplication of a righteous man availeth much in its working (cf. Jam 5:16). Righteous ones, pray for our leaders.

Grace and Peace,

R.D. Beavers