A Prayer for World Leaders by Ellen Elwell
As we begin our Missions & Community Outreach Festival
Two prayers from Prayers for Every Occasion by Ellen Elwell
World Leaders
Sovereign Lord, you are God over all the nations of the whole world. . . and yet you are personally engaged with each one of us. This brings us comfort and hope—not just for our personal circle of family, job, friends, and activities, but also for world events. When we hear about developments in countries we're not familiar with, we're grateful you wield supreme power there, too. You hold the whole world in your hands as lovingly as you hold each of our individual lives.
This prompts us to pray for world leaders around the globe. You created each of them, Father, and you alone know their hearts and minds. History records heads of governments who followed you and were instrumental in bringing your righteousness and justice to various situations. History also records leaders who didn't know you, yet whose hearts were directed by you nonetheless.
Please help each of these select few to make wise choices that ultimately honor you and honor the people they serve. And even if they don't make choices that seem wise, we acknowledge that you remain supreme Ruler of the world. Thank you, Father, that you are always in control.
National Leaders
Sovereign God, you are the ruler of all nations and all people. No king, prime minister, president, or other authority governs without your consent. History is full of both good and evil rulers, and that is the reality of our nation's legacy too. Thank you for leaders of the past who submitted to your will, people who valued justice, mercy, and service as their high calling.
Lord, I pray for those who lead our nation today. May they guide with wisdom, understanding, care, and humility. Move in their hearts in ways that only you can. Give them a desire to serve, fortitude to stay true and honest, and wisdom to gather knowledgeable advisors around them. Remind us of our duty to pray for and submit to these authorities, even when we do not agree with their beliefs and policies. Should times come when we must obey you rather than our rulers, give us courage to stand up and wise words to speak. You have promised to give us your help in such times.
May our nation flourish under godly leadership that only you can provide. In Jesus' name, amen.