Will you take a moment today to pray for those in leadership? 2 Timothy 2:1-2 reminds us, “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” Just as past leaders, like Abraham Lincoln, sought God’s wisdom in times of national crisis, our prayers can support and strengthen leaders facing difficult decisions.During the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln acknowledged his deep dependence on God. He once says, “I have been driven many times upon my knees by the overwhelming conviction that I had nowhere else to go. My own wisdom and that of all about me seemed insufficient for that day.” His reliance on prayer amid the national crisis is a reminder of how vital it is to seek divine guidance in leadership.Similarly, the story of missionary David Livingstone reveals the power of intercessory prayer. While serving in Africa, he faced a deadly threat from a hostile tribal chief. Unknown to him, a church in Scotland had committed to praying for his safety that very night. Later, after the chief came to faith, he admitted his warriors abandoned their plan when they saw 39 towering warriors surrounding Livingstone’s camp. Astonished, Livingstone later learned that exactly 39 members of the Scottish church had been praying for him at that time.Prayer changes things. John Wesley once said, “Give me one hundred men who fear nothing but sin and desire nothing but God, and I care not whether they be clergymen or laymen; such alone will shake the gates of hell and set up the kingdom of heaven on Earth.”May we be people of prayer, faithfully lifting those in authority so they may lead with wisdom, courage, and righteousness. As Scripture reminds us, “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective” (James 5:16). God’s promise is clear: “If My people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves and pray… I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14).Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/Jacob Wackerhausen
Judy McEachran is a passionate worshiper and seasoned pastor who brings together her love for music and ministry to inspire and uplift others. An ordained pastor and accomplished musician, she has spent years encouraging believers through her heartfelt sermons and soul-stirring music. After serving congregations in the Midwest, she and her husband, who was also a pastor, relocated to Arizona upon retirement. Deeply moved by God’s unwavering love and His faithfulness through the years, Judy writes from a pastor’s heart to encourage and strengthen faith in a believer’s walk with Jesus. With the support of her husband, sons, and their families, Judy continues to use her gifts to glorify God. Her YouTube channel, www.youtube.com/@JudyMcEachran, features music that invites listeners to experience the Lord’s presence in a profound and personal way.
