We must keep the Gospel first and the Gospel central. A significant part of that is praying for our country and it’s leaders. Too often churches get stuck on political issues and not the root of those issues- our need of a Savior. We need Jesus. Our country needs Jesus. Given the birthday of the USA, I thought it right to discuss the importance of prayer for our country.

Peter: Submit
Peter wrote is first letter to the church while it was under persecution. A main theme Peter wove throughout the book is the importance of submitting and doing good work. You heard correctly, regardless of the government we’re to submit, love and perform good deeds. Why? Because they’re people to be reached regardless of politics. A key part of praying for our government is our attitude towards it.

Paul: Life quiet and peaceable lives.

“1 First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, 2 for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. 3 This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave himself as a ransom for all, which is the testimony given at the proper time.” ~ Timothy 2:1-6

How to pray
In praying for our country and it’s leaders there are three things to focus on: 1) That we have the right attitude towards our government and the country. We’re more effective in reaching people out of compassion than disdain. 2) We pray for peace. God ordained government to restrain and deal with evil. This is why the government is given the power of the sword. 3) We focus on the Gospel. Government doesn’t save, Jesus does. A political party is not our redeemer, Jesus is. And, Jesus wants to be a friend to all.

The bottom line:
A key aspect to our prayer life needs to be praying for our country. We should start with our own attitude. We should pray for our leaders. Most importantly, we must keep the Gospel in focus. We pray for peace to in order to have the most opportunity to share what brings ultimate peace.

Assignments
Pray.
Find out who your local, state and federal leaders are and pray for them regularly.
Thank God for where he placed you and your attitude towards that place.