I Timothy 2:1-2 – 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.

So maybe you are not called by God to be a politician…but you ARE called by God to pray for those who are! Politicians and first responders are most often the brunt of bad comments, but the vast majority of these people are in their role because they genuinely want to serve the public. As Christians, we are called to pray for our leaders (even if we do not agree with them). Here are some very simple ways you can be an encouragement to those in leadership.

  • Do your homework and know who your city, state and national leaders are. Make a list of their names and job so you can pray specifically for them.
  • Adopt your mayor or city council members. Meet them in person and tell them, “Thank you for your service—I’m praying for you.” Purchase them a Bible to give them as a gift and write in the front a verse you are praying over them.
  • Sign up at thepsp.org to receive regular emails (either daily or weekly) encouraging you to pray for politicians. You select your state to receive in your inbox each day a photo of one of your politicians, a little info about them and their email address. Read the email, pray for them and then send them an email letting them know you are praying. It does not need to be long or eloquent, just simply a note encouraging them, saying “I’m praying for you today.”
  • Attend city county meetings as regularly as possible. Most of the time they are only one hour a month. Be a presence in the room and make sure you introduce yourself before or after the meeting. Remember – your goal is NOT to be a politician or give them your opinions! Simply thank them for their service and say “I’m praying for you.”
  • Meet your senator. Stop by their office or call to set up an appointment, but go in and meet them. Let them know that you are praying for them as they lead in your state.
  • Become a commissioned chaplain! Chaplains serve in all types of areas: hospitals, jails, military bases…become a chaplain to your local fire department, police station or state house.
  • Have your kids draw pictures or write thank you notes and deliver to local leaders (first responders, politicians, etc).

The most important thing you can do is be consistently present. As you show your face repeatedly and consistently encourage your politicians, God will open doors for you to be a support for them in ways you never knew possible.