We are about to witness one of the most important moments in the history of our country. As we prepare for the inauguration of Barack Hussein Obama, many anticipate the ushering in of a new America. Hopefully, it will be an America that will remember to always pray for its leaders.
Already, I’ve heard many say that they are praying for Obama. They’re praying for his safety. They’re praying for the success of his leadership. They’re praying that those around him will be a help, not a hindrance, to his presidency. Christians, let’s keep those prayers going.
As the country swears in its first African American president, it will do so on the Holy Bible. However, as Christians, we know that the Bible is much more than a mere prop. Within the pages of that divine text are words of wisdom and instruction. And by turning to 1 Timothy 2:1–2, we find, “I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”
Paul understood the importance of praying for “those in authority.” As we fall on bended knee to pray for our historic new president, let’s not forget to pray for the other leaders who touch our lives every day, including those in our government (governors, senators, mayors, etc.), those in our workplace (bosses, managers, supervisors, etc.), and those in our communities (organizers, pastors, parents, etc.).
I’m keeping all of our leaders in prayer.
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ReplyDeletehttp://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/nation/la-na-inaug-religion18-2009jan18,0,5754606.story
Thank you for your thougths regarding the upcoming presidency of Barrack Obama. While I have great concerns for some of the directions that he has promised to take this country ... even more concerns for some of the people that he has appointed into leadership, I strongly agree that it is our duty both as citizens and as Christians to pray for our president and other leaders.
ReplyDeleteThis does not mean agreement on all points but to pray for God's direction for our leaders. My first concern is not for the success of Barrack Obama but for the success and well-being of our country. However, our country can not prosper if our president fails. Therefore I want him to succeed.
It is important to differentiate between being a part of the "loyal opposition" that seeks to have "another voice heard" against the opposition that seeks to sabatage one's leaders. I detested those who took the latter course during the last four years but will detest it more for the next four years because I would expect better things from those with whom I am "like minded."
Bottom line is found in Ephesians 1:15-23 which in part says "asking that God ... may give you the Spirit of wisdom." I pray that Barrack Obama be guided by the wisdom of God.