“I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity. This is good and pleases God our Savior.” 1 Timothy 2:1-3 NLT
Today is the 74th annual National Day of Prayer observed in the United States. The first Thursday each May is designated by the U.S. Congress as a day of prayer for the nation. The President is required by law to sign a proclamation encouraging every citizen “to turn to God in prayer and meditation” for the people, the leaders, and the needs of the country.
As Christians we shouldn’t need a special day to remind us to pray for the country and those who lead us. The apostle Paul gives us instructions to do so in the book of 1 Timothy. ‘Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority.’ This should be part of our daily prayers so as Paul says that we live in peaceful times marked by godliness and dignity. Most of us would agree, I’m sure, that America and most of the world need godliness and dignity. This then should be our prayer.
We are to pray for our fellow citizens and all those who reside in our country asking God to intercede for them and giving thanks for them. When God’s people set the example of praying daily for our leaders, for those they lead, and for the needs of America it will bring a greater significance to the National Day of Prayer. Others may not be so reluctant to participate but will join us in prayer.
For those of you who reside outside the United States, Paul’s words apply to you as well. Whether your country has a National Day of Prayer or not, we should be in prayer for those who lead us, the needs of the country, and especially the people. Perhaps you can be catalyst in the establishment of a National Day of Prayer in your country. I understand it is easier said than done. But we serve a great God, and it is His desire that we pray for our leaders to change their hearts and minds “that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity.”
Word for the Soul 