10-Point Prayer Strategy for Leaders

I’ve prayed for every President of my country for over 50 years. Whether I agreed with them, voted for them or not.

Paul taught his young protégé Timothy to pray for the leadership of where he lived. This could not have been an easy thing to hear, since it was during Roman occupation and tremendous persecution. Regardless Paul said this;

“Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior.” 1 Timothy 2:1–3, NKJV

This wasn’t something new - it is a core value of our faith.

Jeremiah said this to the people that were in Babylon - in captivity. “Seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.” Jeremiah 29:7, NIV

It was after that the promise came from the Lord, “I know the plans I have for you. Not for your destruction but to give you a future and a hope.” I believe it was God’s order to put prayer for others before the promise for us. Sacrifice precedes blessing.

Years ago, Billy Graham taught on praying for our leaders. It is a tremendous overview for praying for those from city council to President. It is a pattern I have followed for decades.

Here is his admonition on how to pray for those in leadership. Save this. Pass it on.

1. Open the heart of our president [or any leader at any level] to hear and respond to the Gospel message if they do not know you. Acts 16:14

2. Help [name] to accept wise counsel. Proverbs 11:14; 15:22

3. Teach [name] to trust in You. Psalm 21:7

4. Protect [name] from the influence of the evil one. 2 Thessalonians 3:3

5. Give [name] discretion, foresight, and understanding in making decisions. 1 Chronicles 22:12

6. Deliver [name] from opinions contrary to Your Word. Psalm 119:105

7. Protect [name] from harm and bless and protect his/her family. Psalm 21:11; Ezra 6:10

8. Enable [name] to carry out his/her duties with humility toward You and toward others. 1 Peter 5:5

9. Give [name] the courage to do the right thing even when urged to do the wrong thing. Proverbs 2:11–15

10. Give [name] a tender heart of compassion toward those he/she leads and serves. Colossians 3:12

We are also praying with an understanding that God’s Word says, “The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord, like the rivers of water; He turns it wherever He wishes” Proverbs 21:1

One of the themes of our Lions Roar gatherings and one that has stuck with me is from the Apostle Peter;

“Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king.” 1 Peter 2:17 BRG

So, pray. It will not only follow the command of God. It will move our hearts in the right direction. Filled with grace and faith we move onward with our mission.

To reach men with the Gospel of Jesus Christ, to see men rescued, restored and discipled. To defeat fatherlessness and change the future of the world.

“And whatever you ask for in prayer, having faith and [really] believing, you will receive.” Matt 21:22 AMPC