By Scott Jones

“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.” - 1 Timothy 2: 1-4

This Bible instructs us to pray “for kings and all who are in authority” - but there is a purpose attached to it. It is for us - the citizens to be able to “lead a quiet and peaceable life”. There is a direct correlation between our prayers for our leaders and our freedoms. These government officials effect our lives. So regardless of whether we agree with them on policy or party - we still have a responsibility to pray for them.

It is easy to feel overwhelmed and not know where to start when praying for government.  There is so much going on and so many needs that you could find yourself praying 24/7 and still not include everything burdening your heart.  Organizing, prioritizing and listing government entities, elected officials and staff helps focus your prayers and strategize your efforts.

Start by making a list of all the governing bodies that have jurisdiction over you.  Start at the smallest, local level and work up. Here are some suggestions:

• County Government

• City Government

• School Board

• Special Purpose Districts such as Hospital, Community College, or other districts that have taxing authority.

If you are not sure, you can find all the above districts on your voter registration card.

Party leadership such as precinct and county chairs. This information can be found on your local party or state party websites, like the TexasGOP.org and TexasDemocrats.org.

Civic organizations that have prominent roles in your community such as the local Chamber or other groups.

If your target area is small, research local churches and pastors’ names.

Law enforcement including Police Chiefs, Sheriffs, DPS Officers, Game Wardens, etc.

First Responders such as Volunteer Fire Depts and auxiliaries and EMS personnel.

The Courts and Judges who have jurisdiction in your area starting with Municipal, and then District Courts, Courts of Appeals and at the statewide level, the State Supreme Court and Court of Criminal Appeals.  Your voter registration card will not tell you which judicial districts you’re in, but here is a link to the Texas Judicial branch and it is very comprehensive.  https://www.txcourts.gov

State Board of Education or SBOE.  Your voter registration card will tell you which district you are in.  https://tea.texas.gov/about-tea/leadership/state-board-of-education.

State leaders, your State Representative and State Senator.

U.S. Senators, your Congressman, the President and Vice President and possibly cabinet members as the Lord leads.

List all the elected officials under each governing body and any critical department heads or staff for local bodies which can be found on those body’s websites.  Obviously, these are a lot of officials to pray for.  Ask God where to focus your prayers, and choose based on His guidance. 

Once you have decided which bodies to include, strategically, assign different ones to each day of the week and list all the names and put it somewhere where it can be seen when you are praying.  Lift each person by name to the Lord.  

Pray for their souls, pray for wisdom, pray for discernment for them, pray that they would get into the Word of God and find the answers they need, pray for their peace…

In that - you will find peace as well. Prayer matters.

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