A Prayer for Today

1 Timothy 2:1–4 says, First of all, then, I urge that requests, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made in behalf of all people, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to the [c]knowledge of the truth.”

Scripture commands us to pray for those who govern us. We should love our country, seek its good, and thank God for its blessings. At the same time, there should always be a healthy distinction between our loyalty to Christ and our loyalty to any earthly nation. God ordained both the home of faith and civil government, and each has a different mission. I have traveled to many countries, and if given the choice, I would gladly live here. I am grateful for this nation and the freedoms we enjoy.

More than 140 years ago, one of our own brethren, preacher and later President James A. Garfield, closed his inaugural address with these words: "May the Father of us all guide us into paths of peace, of prosperity, and of honor; may He protect and cherish our common country; may He grant us happiness and length of days."

President Garfield and David Lipcsomb were contemporaries, born only six years apart. We join our brother Garfield in that prayer today, yet we remember, with David Lipscomb, that while we love our country, our highest citizenship is in heaven.

Father, bless these Your men whereever they may be serving. May those who lead lead in a way that the Gospel may have free course and may they be able to live lives fully for You. We pray that You would protect them and their families at all times.

In Jesus name, AMEN