“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness” (1 Timothy 2:1-2).
As Christians, we are called to pray for our leaders (even if we don’t agree with them). Here are some very simple ways you can be an encouragement to those in leadership.
• Do your homework and know your city, state, and national leaders. Make a list of their names and jobs so you can pray specifically for them.
• Adopt your mayor or city council members. Meet them in person and tell them, “Thank you for your service—I’m praying for you.” Purchase a Bible to give them as a gift and write in the front a verse you are praying over them.
• Sign up at Public Servants’ Prayer (www.thepsp.org) to receive regular e-mails encouraging you to pray for politicians in your state. You’ll receive a photo of one of your politicians, some information about them, and their e-mail address. Read the e-mail, pray for them, and then let them know you are praying.
• Attend city or county meetings as regularly as possible. Be a presence in the room and introduce yourself before or after the meeting, with the goal of thanking them and telling them you’re praying for them.
• Meet your senators and representatives. Stop by their office or call to set up an appointment, then go in and meet them. Let them know you are praying for them as they lead in your state.
• Become a commissioned chaplain! Chaplains serve in hospitals, jails, military bases, and more. Become a chaplain to your local fire department, police station, or state legislature.
• Ask your children to draw pictures or write thank-you notes and deliver them to local leaders and first responders.
The most important thing you can do is be consistently present. As you show your face over and over and consistently encourage your politicians, God will open doors for you to be a support for them in ways you never knew possible.
Autumn Wall and her husband are planting a church in Indianapolis. She is coauthor with her mother, Diana Davis, of “Across the Street and Around the World: Ideas to Spark Missional Focus” (New Hope Publishers).