Praying for Our Nation

Praying for our Nation

1 Timothy 2:1-4 gives us instruction to pray and principles:

First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.

Note whom we are to pray for:

“all people” – all types of people, all professions. Think of individuals or types of individuals who may not be thought of typically. This especially includes people who are hostile to the gospel and biblical values. Jesus commands us, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44).

“for kings and all who are in high positions” – from the federal government down to local government. High positions can also be anyone in some kind of position of authority: teachers, school principals and superintendents, civil servants, first responders. You might draw from your personal background and focus on such positions that you know well.

Pray for all those serving in the military in their various levels of authority, especially those with the burden of making decisions that can save or cost lives.

Pray for churches, ministries, and the people serving in them.

Think of institutions that may be overlooked such as hospitals, libraries, child-care and elder-care, government agencies responsible for utilities, maintenance, etc. What comes to your mind?

Note the reasons for our prayers:

1) Common grace – “that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.” The better our country and communities are governed, the greater freedom and opportunity to live peaceful and godly lives before the Lord.

2) Special grace – “This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” The best prayer that you can offer up for anyone is for them to know God our Savior.

Georgia Officials to Pray For:

Federal Officials

Georgia Senators                                Johnny Isakson, David Perdue

Georgia Congressmen                         Buddy Carter, Sanford Bishop, Lynn Westmoreland, Hank

Johnson, John Lewis, Tom Price, Rob Woodall, Austin

Scott, Doug Collins, Barry Loudermilk, Rick

Allen, David Scott, Tom Graves, *Jody Hice (our district)

Georgia Officials

Governor                                             Nathan Deal

Lt. Governor                                       Casey Cagle

House Representatives (180)              Trey Rhodes (for Greene & Putnam)

State Senator (56)                               Burt Jones (for Greene & Putnam)

Attorney General                                Sam Olens

Secretary of State                               Brian Kemp

State School Superintendent              Richard Woods

Local

Putnam Co. Commissioners                Stephen Hersey (chair), Billy Webster, Alan Foster,

Frederick Ward, Janie Reid

Putnam Co. Manager                          Paul Van Haute

Eatonton Mayor                                  Walter Rocker

Greene Co. Commissioners                 Ed Bullard (chair), Angela Deering, Jeffery Smith,

                                                            Jonathan Human, Jimmy Britt

Greensboro Mayor                              Glenn Wright