Written by Got Questions
Article originally published in the September issue of JOY! Magazine
The Bible contains many commands to pray for our leaders – national and local, secular and religious. This call is not limited to democratic nations, but reflects God’s heart for those entrusted with responsibility.
Prayer for those in authority
Paul wrote, “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” (1 Tim 2:1-2). God also told the Israelites in exile to pray for Babylon: “And seek the peace of the city where I have caused you to be carried away captive, and pray to the Lord for it” (Jer 29:7). Paul likewise asked for prayer that he would speak the Gospel boldly (Eph 6:18-20).
Leadership takes many forms
The Bible makes special mention of praying for those in authority. This includes government officials – international, national, and local – as well as pastors, church elders, school leaders, employers, and others whose decisions affect the people around them.
Their decisions affect us
We do not pray for our leaders only because we are commanded to. Their choices can shape our families, churches, workplaces, cities, and countries. When those in authority seek the will of God, it is easier to “lead a quiet and peaceable life in all Godliness and reverence” (1 Tim 2:2). When they do not, our prayers are no less important. William Tyndale’s final prayer was, “Lord, open the King of England’s eyes.”
Leaders carry responsibility
We also do not pray for leaders merely for our own benefit. Leadership can be tiring, and those who lead often carry criticism, pressure, and responsibility. James 3:1 reminds us that teachers will “receive a stricter judgement”. If leaders are serving well, they are giving much of themselves for others. We can pray for them with gratitude, compassion, and grace, asking the Holy Spirit to strengthen and guide them.
How we should pray
If we are uncertain whether our leaders know Jesus, we should pray for their salvation. Whether or not they are Christians, we can ask God to guide them, give them wisdom and discernment, and surround them with wise advisers. We know that God has placed leaders in authority (Rom 13:1), and we can ask Him to work in and through them according to His purposes.
Strength and protection
We should also pray for their protection. For pastors and ministry leaders, we can ask the Lord to strengthen them in spiritual warfare, keep them encouraged, and guard their hearts. We can also remember their families, who may feel scrutinised and carry an extra load.
Bring them before God
Ultimately, we bring our leaders before God and trust Him with them. We ask Him to shape their hearts, support those around them, and use their leadership for the good of the people they serve.
This article appears in the September 2026 issue of JOY! Magazine. Read the digital version of this magazine here: joygifts.co.za
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Date published: 04/09/2026
Feature image: Sourced from original article published in the September issue of JOY! Magazine
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