How to Pray for Our Leaders (Even If You Disagree With Them)
If we're honest, it's not always easy to pray for people in power—especially when their decisions frustrate us or go against our convictions. But as followers of Christ, we’re called to something higher than personal preference. We’re called to intercession.
So how do we pray for leaders—presidents, pastors, mayors, governors, or even bosses—when we don’t agree with them?
1. Start With Scripture, Not Sentiment
The Bible doesn’t leave room for guessing here. In 1 Timothy 2:1-2, Paul urges:
“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.”
Notice it doesn’t say “pray for the ones you like” or “pray only when they’re righteous.” It says all those in authority. Why? Because God’s people are meant to be peacemakers and intercessors—not just political commentators.
2. Pray With Clarity, Not Contempt
It’s easy to fall into one of two traps:
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We ignore our leaders and write them off.
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We rage at them without ever praying for them.
But neither of those options reflect the heart of Christ.
Instead, we can pray specific, powerful prayers that reflect both our convictions and God’s character:
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“Lord, give our leaders wisdom and humility.”
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“Convict them of injustice and lead them to righteousness.”
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“Protect them from pride, corruption, and deception.”
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“Surround them with godly counsel and truth.”
When we pray this way, we’re not excusing wrongdoing—we’re inviting God’s hand to move in their lives.
3. Remember Who’s Really in Control
Every leader—good or bad—is still under God’s sovereignty.
Proverbs 21:1 says:
“The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord; he directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases.”
Even the most powerful people on earth are not outside of God’s reach. Your prayers may not change their policies overnight, but they can change the spiritual atmosphere—and your own heart.
4. Be a Witness, Not Just a Critic
The world is watching how we handle disagreement.
Do we lash out with hate or lean in with prayer? Do we slander, or do we speak truth in love?
Praying for your leaders—especially the ones you disagree with—is a radical act of obedience and humility. It reflects the heart of a Savior who prayed for His enemies even as they crucified Him.
Final Word:
Whether you’re thrilled or frustrated with the people in power, don’t sit on the sidelines spiritually. Get in the prayer room. Stand in the gap. Because our God listens—and He moves.
A Prayer for the HGA Community:
Father, I lift up our leaders to You. Where there is pride, bring humility. Where there is confusion, bring clarity. Where there is injustice, bring conviction. And where there is darkness, shine Your light. Give me the grace to pray with compassion, not contempt. And help me trust that You are always in control. Amen.