It’s no secret that this coming election is a big one!

I believe in so many ways, our children’s and grandchildren’s futures are at stake.

The issues that face us are not just moral but Biblical issues that we need to be aware of, take seriously, and consider a matter of prayer.

Not only this, but I believe that this is a great time to discuss, educate, and pray with our families so that our children know exactly what is happening. They can’t vote yet but they can influence by their prayers!

Not to instill fear, but rather to help them see that God is bigger than all of this and we can trust it all into His capable hands!

Talking About Politics and the Election with Children

Obviously, the way that you go about this, how much you share, and in what way is at your discretion as a parent. An elementary student is not ready to handle topics of gender and abortion at the same level as a middle or high schooler.

First, we must approach politics from a kingdom perspective.  As Christians, we live for another kingdom. Philippians 3:20-21 NIV says, “But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ,  who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.”

Our hope is not in the Democratic Party, the Republican Party, or any other. Our hope is in God, who is sovereign over all things. So regardless of who is in office and what laws pass, we do not dispare but rely on Him.

Second, we hold to a Biblical worldview. Every issue should be filtered through the Bible.

• The Bible says all are created equal. (Gen. 1:27)
• The Bible says we are to respect those in authority. (1 Peter 2:17)
• The Bible says all authority is under the rule of God. (Colossians 1:15-18)
• The Bible tells us to defend those who can’t speak for themselves. (Psalm 82:3)
• The Bible tells us to seek mercy and justice. (Micah 6:8)

Finally, we must seek God’s idea of justice and law. As fallen people, we are subject to unhealthy emotions. We tend to believe in retaliation and immediate and swift punishment. However, we have to trust God to work and act on His time table and also that His judgement and justice are perfect.

The Bible reminds us in Ephesians 6 that, “our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” Because of this, we are called to “pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.” (v. 12,18)

Scriptures that Encourage Prayer for Nations and Leaders

There are scriptures that encourage us to pray for and honor those in authority because God himself has placed them there. We will use these scriptures to fuel most of our prayers. They are good to read through and discuss with your family during this upcoming election.

• 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. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

• Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Romans 13:1

• Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper. Jeremiah 29:7

• When a country is rebellious, it has many rulers, but a ruler with discernment and knowledge maintains order. Proverbs 28:2

• Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor. 1 Peter 2:17

Prayer Topics for the Upcoming Election

There are so many ways to pray for the election, our nation, leaders, and the issues. However, I have chose to be general so that you can add to with your state and local election issues as well

1. Pray for Christians to Vote According to Scripture

Philippians 2:3-5 NIV encourages, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves,  not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus.”

Let’s pray for our fellow believers to have the mind of Christ and not to vote out of selfish ambition but in ways that look out also for the interests of others.

2. Pray for Christian Leaders to be Elected and for Salvation of Current Leaders

The scripture we just read from 1 Timothy 2 instructed us to pray for rulers and kings everywhere because God is pleased when we do. It went on to say that He desires all to be saved and have knowledge of truth.

Titus 3:1 says, “Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good,” Try this lesson from Children’s Ministry to reinforce.

3. Pray for the Protection of the Innocent

God is the author of life. All people were made in His image. He does not show partiality and does not give us the right to either.

Our prayers should be to protect the unborn, children, the oppressed, the elderly, and the poor. We should oppose and pray against laws that might harm or further take advantage of the innocent.

4. Pray for Peace and Love in Conversations

Political conversations can quickly turn into heated debates. As Christians, we are called to “speak truth in love.” (Ephesians 4:15)

Let’s pray that all conversations we have around the subjects of politics, leaders, and the election are peaceful, loving, and point back to Jesus.

5. Pray for God’s Comfort to Override Fear

Finally, many get fearful when they think of the future of our nation or if certain leaders are elected and certain laws passed. God has not given His people a spirit of fear.

We can pray against fear, pray for our enemies, and pray for God’s peace and comfort in the midst of uncertainty.

A Prayer for Our Nation

You can use my prayer or the topics use as prayer prompts as you pray daily for this nation and the upcoming election. My family and I are standing in the gap with you.

Lord, awaken the believers in this nation. Light a fire in them so they speak truth in love. Your people who are called by your name must seek your face, shine your light, and speak the gospel so that people will be saved.

Lord, we ask that you will put godly men and women in places of position and authority. People who will govern according to Your commands and wisdom. We ask you to save those already in place.

Finally, God, we ask you to protect the unborn, the innocent, and the oppressed. We pray that others will be moved to pass laws and shoot down other legislation that infringes on the rights and safety of those made in your image.

We ask these things in the name of Jesus knowing that your sovereign will always prevails. We will stand firm on truth and trust you with the outcome. We will not fear but have faith in Christ. Amen.