Praying for our country is biblical. And, what's more, it's not up to someone else to do it. It's up to you and me, mere average citizens, to support our nation's leaders through prayer and supplication.
Praying for our country pleases the Lord (1 Timothy 2:3). It comes not as a suggestion but as a command from God (1 Timothy 2:1-8).
He promises us in 2 Chronicles 7:14, "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land."
Yes, you can bring blessing and change your country when you pray and ask God to get involved. James 4:2 states that we have not because we ask not. What if we exchanged grumbling under our breath for clear, heartfelt prayer? As believers, we have the power to intercede.
God works in the nations at levels otherwise impossible for mere everyday folk to influence ... but through intercessory prayer, He does! This is a great mystery, and a profound privilege. Prayer draws us in to what God is doing, not only in your country but also in other nations.
While it's true that God does not control unbelievers, in His sovereignty He accomplishes His purposes... often in ways that we don't fully understand. But we can be a part of it through prayer. Things do not happen outside of His overruling grace.
We should give thanks to the Lord for those who are in authority (1 Timothy 2:1-2). This includes the president, the military, the civic leaders of your town, policemen and more. Yes, they make mistakes, but so do we.
Now, no matter how you feel about those in authority, won't you join me today in praying for our country's leaders?
I'm on my knees, and there's plenty of room beside me...
