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.

1 Timothy 2:1-2

[The Lord] says of Cyrus, “He is my shepherd; and he shall fulfill all my purpose.”

Isaiah 44:28

Dear Lord,

You are the King of kings and our ultimate authority, yet in Your wisdom You set up governments and rulers for the sake of peace and order on this earth. You used the pagan King Cyrus to accomplish Your purpose in sending Israel back from their exile, even calling him your “shepherd.” Through the apostle Paul, You exhorted Timothy to pray for his rulers, even while Nero, who was literally insane, ruled with particular cruelty to Christians. We know that the rulers of this world are still in Your hands and are under Your authority, whether they acknowledge this or not. We pray for President Biden and Vice President Harris, that they may lead with wisdom and common sense. Give them clarity of mind, and where they are not acting in accordance with Your will, bring them to repentance and saving faith in You. May they work for unity and peace in our nation and in the world. Use them as Your instruments as You used King Cyrus of old. Bless our Congress, our Supreme Court, all governors and state legislatures, all local authorities, and judges on every level. Raise up godly leaders who believe in You and seek to accomplish Your will in our land, and raise up Christians everywhere to pray for our leaders.

I pray especially for the following leaders and the following issues…

In Your name I pray. Amen.

(For a full explanation of this challenge, see the post 12-Minute Prayer Challenge. If you are just joining us, feel free to continue on with us from the current day, or if you prefer, you can go back and start at Day 1.)