Interceding For Nations: The Weight of World-Sized Prayer.
Daily Devotion: April 5
Scripture: 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.
The church does not live in isolation from the political and social structures that surround it. Paul instructs Timothy that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings should be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may live a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Saviour, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
Interceding for nations is not patriotism disguised as prayer, nor is it political lobbying dressed in spiritual language. It is the recognition that the authorities that exist have been established by God, and that the prayers of the saints can restrain evil, establish peace, and create the conditions under which the gospel flourishes.
Jeremiah sent a word to the exiles in Babylon that has shaped the prayer of the diaspora ever since. He told them to seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare. The intercessor for nations does not pray merely for the church to be spared but for the nation to be blessed. He prays for economic stability so the poor may eat, for just governance so the widow may be protected, for peace so the merchant may travel safely. The nation’s shalom becomes the church’s opportunity, and the church’s prayer becomes the nation’s protection.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, help me and use me to be a blessing to my nation, and fellow citizens, not withdraw from the political sphere but intercede within it. Use my prayers to contribute to the conditions where the gospel can run freely and souls can be saved. Amen.