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.
This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved
and to come to a knowledge of the truth. (1 Timothy 2:1-4 NIV)
God, can I ask you a question?
Of course, Child.
I understand that not every believer views politics the same way I do, but to me, the election results seemed clear and, hopefully, reflected the influence of your church’s prayers for godliness in leadership. Thankfully, there haven’t been riots, assassination attempts, or widespread violence in response to the outcome. However, the inauguration on January 20 is still a long way off. I find it hard to believe that the forces of evil—demonic in nature—have simply disappeared so quickly and quietly because of this election. Are they really gone?
No, Child. Remember that your enemy tried to take out Jesus as an infant when Herod slaughtered the babies. When that didn’t work, he tried to take out Jesus in the wilderness of temptation. When that didn’t work, he tried to take out Jesus on the Cross. No, your enemy may have had a setback, but he has not given up. He will try to take out the people I have appointed for such a time as this – those I have called, whether they understand it or not – to reform your nation. He may do this in obvious physical ways, but may also do it by attacks on their character, minds, spirits, families, businesses, etc. You must pray for protection over these people, over your economy, and over the hearts, minds, and spirits of the people. This spiritual war may be in a quiet lull right now, but do not think your enemy has quit.
(Sigh.) Ok, God. We will continue to pray.
God of Justice, Righteousness, and Peace,
We thank You for the peace that, by Your grace, has prevailed in our nation since the November 5 election. We are grateful that there have been no significant outbreaks of violence, and that the transition between administrations and Congress appears to be going smoothly. We thank You for the faithful people of Your Church who have prayed for our nation, for its elections, and for its future.
Today, we come before You to continue interceding for this nation. We ask that You pour out a fresh hunger for prayer upon Your Church, so that we can partner with You to bring about lasting change. We pray for the continued peaceful transfer of power and stand against any forces of evil that would seek to disrupt the lawful installation of duly elected officials.
We lift up those who have been elected—protect them, their families, and all who serve with them. We ask for Your protection over our homeland and our economy, and pray that those entrusted with decisions about our finances and economic future would have Your wisdom and discernment.
We also pray that any plans of the enemy would be revealed, exposed, and thwarted in Jesus’ name. May Your righteousness and peace become the new standard in our nation, and may any attempts to undermine it be blocked by the power of prayer and Your Holy Spirit.
Lord, continue to draw Your people into deeper communion with You, so that we may hear Your voice and follow Your way, truth, and life. We ask for the mind of Christ, endurance, and encouragement, that we may honor You with one voice and bring You glory.
We ask all these things in the powerful name of Jesus. Amen.
May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. (Romans 15:5-6 NIV)