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. For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all.1 Tim. 2:1-6 ESV
Heavenly Father, today we begin a new presidency in the USA. I don’t think I’ve ever felt as conflicted on an inauguration day, and I’m sure I’ve never treasured this passage of Scripture more. You bid us pray for kings and rulers in high positions, precisely because the entire course of history is in your hands. Hallelujah!
We get a new president today, but you are our eternal God; and you make “all things conform to the purpose of your will” (Eph. 1:11), including the American presidency—the outgoing one and the incoming one. Father, don’t let us forget that every day and month, year and century is defined by your generous commitment to save a family for yourself, from every race and nation. Your chief concern isn’t to fill America with prosperity, but to fill the new earth with your children.
So in light of the completed ransom, merciful mediation, and current reign of Jesus, we pray for this new administration. Promote good and restrain evil, through our new government, Sovereign Father. By your hand and heart, may we live “peaceful and quiet, and godly and dignified” lives to your glory—showing and telling the gospel, to our neighbors and the nations. Presidents come and go, but you are our eternal God, only Sovereign, and loving Father.
Help us live as your dual citizenship children—the one written on our passports, and the one written on our hearts. We love our country, but we love your kingdom more. We long for the Day when the entire earth will be filled with the knowledge of your glory. So very Amen we pray, in Jesus’ wonderful and merciful name.
