Pray For Our Real Leaders

 The Scripture reminds us to be in subjection to those in authority overs us, because the authority they wield is received from God Himself. We are warned that to resist authority is to oppose the ordinance and order of God, and condemnation will be the result of our rebellion. 

Part of that subjection I think, is to pray for those in leadership positions. This is something that I personally do and have done, even when I don't agree with their policies. Men and women in leadership roles are entrusted with huge responsibility from God regardless if they realize that fact or not, so I pray for them.  They need Godly wisdom to govern according to the immutable principles God has established, and by which He governs the world and universe.  Important as that is, I think there is an even more important group of leaders and governors that we as believers in Christ should pray for given the state of the USA at this point in our history.  They would be the denominational leaders of those movements that still hold to the one true Gospel.

They serve the risen Christ as under His authority, yet over us in authority. They need to hear from God as to how to lead, what to emphasize, how to respond in the present turmoil and in the years ahead. They are leaders in the most significant body of people in the world, the church of Jesus Christ. We are the people He has redeemed, and empowered to be an influence for good and for justice and the kingdom of God in the present. We are those commissioned to make the Gospel of Jesus Christ known to all people everywhere. History can not hide the tremendous influence Christ Jesus and His church have had on this world.  The Gospel has catapulted the civilizing of humanity like no other teaching or philosophical system. 

  Currently politicians are fighting to retain power, some to gain power. Some perhaps from good motives others perhaps with wicked motives.  Either way, it seems like not one of them is even considering the risen Christ who has all authority in His right hand. Our denominational leaders are at the helm of the greatest force for good that ever existed, and they need our prayers in these days for it is within the Christian church that real power lies. We have the word of God, truth codified and made knowable. We have the Holy Spirit of God Himself, within us and among as as we gather to worship and pray. We have the privilege {and duty} of prayer, that mysterious action that moves God to act according to His eternal and perfect purpose. I'm wondering and asking God for wisdom as to how to minister in these days. We have to think about what ministry will look like in the coming months and years. 

We can no longer be content with our religiously correct trends, books, pop music, "how to" sermons and all the rest of a brand of Christianity that seems more designed to sell than to save. Yes, we must pray for our leaders of whatever denomination we are part of. For in so doing, we participate in a great struggle after which Christ Jesus will make all things right, and bring many people to glory, in His Presence forever.  But today, we need wisdom and the power of the Holy Spirit to discern the path God would have us take. May He give our denominational leaders, His servants, the grace to lead. May it be the result of the faithful prayers of a faithful church.