1 Timothy 2:1-2 urges that we make “supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings . . . 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.” (ESV)
So I know that I should be praying for the government, the leaders, of my country, but have often been at a loss as to what to pray. Perhaps Psalm 72, a prayer for the king, is a fitting prayer. This prayer is adapted largely from the English Standard Version.
(1) O God, give my country’s highest authorities your justice, and give your righteousness to all government officials.
(2) May our judges judge our people with righteousness, and our poor with justice.
(3) May our land bear prosperity for the people in righteousness.
(4) May our government defend the cause of the poor of the people, give deliverance to the children of the needy and crush the oppressor.
(5) May our governing officials fear God while the sun endures.
(6) May they be like rain that falls on the mown grass, like showers that water the earth.
(7) As our officials govern, may the righteous flourish and peace abound.
(8-11) God has established our borders. May our government be respected by other nations and even our enemies.
(12) May our government deliver the needy when he calls, the poor and him who has no helper.
(13) May we have pity on the weak and the needy and save the lives of the needy.
(14) May our government redeem the weak and needy from oppression and violence because their blood is precious in the sight of those in authority.
(15) May endurance and resources be given to those who govern well. May Christians pray for their governing leaders continually.
(16) May our land and our people blossom.
(17) May our government be a blessing to the people, and may it bless all nations.
(18) Blessed be the LORD, the God of all countries, who alone does wondrous things.
(19) Blessed be his glorious name forever; May the whole earth be filled with his glory! Amen and Amen!
Words of Worship for God 