How to Pray for Unrighteous Kings

As believers we are called to watch and pray.

Without question we live in times when prayer is essential to finding balance, peace, and clarity. 

But how, or should we pray for unrighteous kings and leaders in authority?    

Many refer to 1 Timothy 2:2 when it comes to praying for kings (aka presidents).

Unfortunately, they fail to examine the surrounding scriptures. 

Let's look at the scripture in context as written in 1 Timothy 2:1-4, which reads:

Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 

Should believers pray for unrighteous kings?

Definitely, but how believers should pray for unrighteous kings is absolutely vital to the call to intercede.  

1 Timothy 2:1-4 instructs believers to make "supplications, prayers, intercessions, and givings of thanks for all..." 

When praying for kings and all who are in authority,  believers are called to pray so they may "lead quiet and peaceable lives in all godliness and reference." 

Why?

Because unrighteous kings are often void of Godly  principles.

Unrighteous kings are notorious violators God's covenant laws.

Unrighteous kings often create or change laws contrary to God's intended purpose for humanity.

So, how should believers pray for unrighteous kings?

Believers should pray for the salvation of unrighteous kings and all who are in authority.

Believers should pray for unrighteous kings to come to the knowledge of the truth.  

Christ is the way, the truth, and the life; therefore, believers should pray for unrighteous kings to come to know Christ.  

Here's a simple prayer when praying for unrighteous kings and all in authority.

Heavenly Father,

You alone are my King.  You are the great I AM.  You are the Alpha and the Omega.  The earth and the fullness thereof belong to You.  You sent Your only begotten Son to prepare the way, to die so we may all have salvation.  I pray for the salvation of unrighteous kings and all who are in authority.  I pray for the salvation of all humankind for it is Your desire that no one perish, but for all to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.

In Yeshua's name we pray.

Amen.

Spend time in the word.  Engage in listening prayer.  Grab a copy of My Listening Prayer Journal to strengthen and enhance your devotional quiet time with God.

Kingdom Blessings,

DeborahT