Wednesday, July 5, 2017
1 Timothy 2:1-2 I urge … that requests, prayers, and intercession be made … for kings and all those in authority,
PRAY FOR THE GOVERNING AUTHORITIES (1)
Another word of godly counsel Paul gives Christians in this verse is that we remember to offer up prayers to the Lord in which we ask Him to bless our country with leaders who will govern wisely and well.
That may be hard to do when we don't like those occupying positions of authority in government and when they don't show themselves to be wonderful people. But let that not hinder us from praying for them. They need our prayers, for as Martin Luther says in his Large Catechism, those who occupy positions of leadership in government are up against some mighty foes. Not just political opponents but the super-powerful Foe that exists in the unseen spirit-world: Satan. He isn't satisfied with destroying spiritual government by leading souls astray by false doctrine and bringing them under his power. He also works to undermine the stability of earthly governments by causing contentions to arise, murder and treason, and by instigating wars. The devil is sorry if anyone has a morsel of bread from God and eats it in peace. If it lay within his power (if God didn't stop him) no citizen would be able to keep a straw in the field, a penny in the house, or their life for a hour. Especially those who love God's Word and want to live as Christians (Large Catechism, Luther's comments on the Fourth Petition of the Lord's Prayer).
In view of this mighty Foe whom our government leaders are up against, how greatly they are in need of our prayers! Let us intercede for them regularly before the throne of our Father.
To Thee, our God, we fly For mercy and for grace;
Oh, hear our lowly cry And hide not Thou Thy face!
O Lord, stretch forth Thy mighty hand And guard and bless our fatherland.
The powers ordained by Thee With heavenly wisdom bless;
May they Thy servants be And rule in righteousness!
O Lord, stretch forth Thy mighty hand And guard and bless our fatherland.
(The Lutheran Hymnal, 580:1, 4)
