Saturday, 14 January 2023
PRAYING FOR LEADERS
I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority… (1 Timothy 2:1-2).
In Acts 13:6-12, we find a very interesting story about the missionary work of Barnabas and Paul in Paphos — a city known for a combination of immorality and darkness. In the course of their evangelical work in the city, the deputy, Sergius Paulus, wanted to hear God’s Word and sent for Barnabas and Paul.
But one of his very influential officials — a noted false prophet and sorcerer — attempted to frustrate their missionary efforts. He didn’t want his boss to hear the Gospel. But Paul, having observed Elymas’ deceptive and malicious tendencies, firmly expostulated with him and said, “And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon thee, and thou shalt be blind, not seeing the sun for a season…” (Acts 13:11). Suddenly, the man went blind and got out of their way. Hallelujah!
Sergius Paulus was a prudent man; he wasn’t a corrupt official, but he was unaware of the kind of influence that Elymas would have on him, having been planted by Satan. These are often part of Satan’s ways of getting across to government and political leaders, to influence them and get them to do the wrong things.
Therefore, in praying for the leaders of your city, state or country, remember that there’re times Satan plants his own people among them, to distract them from hearing the Word and from getting to know God. Therefore, using the Name of Jesus, break the power of Satan over those who work with leaders and seek to influence or counsel them to go against the will and purposes of God.
Furthermore, command the devil to loose his grip over their minds so the light of the glorious Gospel of Christ would shine unto them. Affirm that their hearts are open to receive the Gospel willingly and as a result, righteousness springs up in their hearts and the wisdom of God guides their thoughts. Pray for leaders and all men this way as admonished in 1 Timothy 2:1-2.
PRAYER: Lord, your desire is for the leaders and peoples of the nations to be saved and for your righteousness to rule their hearts and guide their thinking. Therefore, I pray for leaders of nations, that their hearts be opened and receptive to the Gospel. I pray that your Word will have free course and be glorified and have prevailing power in their lives, effectively cutting off every negative influence from among them, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
FURTHER STUDY:
1 Timothy 2:1-4; Jeremiah 29:7; Proverbs 21:1
1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Matthew 10:24-42 & Genesis 34-35
2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Matthew 6:1-13 & Genesis 14