Now is the time.... To Pray for Our Nation

Pray......for kings and all others who are in authority, so that we can live in peace and quietness, in godliness and dignity. 1 Timothy 2:2

No matter which nation on earth we live in, our leaders need our prayers. Even more so in the days in which we live. Some of the denominational churches which follow a set order of service are very good at following many of the calls to prayer that the Bible makes upon Christians. For others it's a bit of a 'hit or miss' thing. We remember when the government is in crisis and forget at other times. I was challenged afresh today to pray for our land and her leaders when I read in Proverbs 14:34 "Godliness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people."

We know ourselves the pressures that come to bear on society today and we need to remind ourselves that our leaders, whether on a national or local level, whether making the laws or upholding the laws; all need our prayers to be effective.

As I write, Norway is facing the challenge of dealing with a radical mass killer who calls himself a Christian. How deceived can one be? Followers of Jesus Christ do not go around killing people for ANY cause. The United States of America is facing a problem that many face on a weekly basis.... it has no money to pay its bills. By the time this blog is published I truly pray that they will have solved their problem or the whole world will have a problem! Australia's government is facing much criticism and unrest over the proposed new carbon tax. Our policemen face the challenge of unthinkable acts of violence and disobedience and the courts face the task of meting out justice. Scripture in schools is being undermined. We need to pray that this opening to tell children about a God who loves and cares for them and wants only good for their lives, is not snatched away. We need to pray for those teaching scripture in schools and for open hearts and minds for the children to believe and receive the truth.

Yes, our countries need our prayers. Will you ask God to help you remember to pray for your nation and your leaders so that we can live the lives of peace and safety that God wants for us.

Loving God, please help me to be faithful in remembering to pray for my country and her leaders and for the generation of new leaders that you want to rise up. I pray that godliness will indeed be what exalts our nation and that you will strengthen our leaders and give them integrity to rule over us in justice and truth. Amen