Prayer at Election Time

As Women of Welcome, we know how important it is to engage in politics. We vote. We connect with our lawmakers and advocate for the needs of the vulnerable. But we can't forget one of the most important things we can do right now. We pray.

As Women of Welcome, we know how important it is to engage in politics. We vote. We connect with our lawmakers and advocate for the needs of the vulnerable. But we can’t forget one of the most important things we can do right now.

We pray.

I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity. 1 Timothy 2:1-2 NLT

As Election Day nears, and our country and political leaders stand divided, we desperately need God to bring healing and unity to our nation. Let’s join our voices in prayer and petition on behalf of those in authority so that we can “live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity.” Before we pray, let’s take a minute to quiet our hearts and minds to prepare to speak to God together.

Lord Jesus,

we come before you collectively as women who desire to follow Christ’s example of love, invitation, and generosity, especially to those who are pushed to the margins. As we pray together today we ask that you first work within our own hearts. Align our hearts with yours and confront our selfish tendencies. Show us how to listen with open and humble hearts, especially to people different from us. Help our political leaders to do the same.

We want to pray specifically for our current political leaders. Please help them to be willing to walk alongside each other, with a spirit of cooperation, and that as a nation we would move toward unity. We ask you to soften each of our leaders’ hearts to hear and understand the needs of the communities they serve, especially the marginalized. Humble our own hearts and help us lift up each leader by name, regardless of their political party or the stances they hold.

  • We pray for our President and Vice President and their advisors and cabinet
  • We pray for our Senators and Representatives (by name, if you know)
  • We pray for The Supreme Court
  • We pray for our Governors, and other state and local officials (by name, if you know)

We pray for the upcoming election. We pray for discernment as we cast our votes. Help us choose leaders who follow you and your truth, love in the ways you love, and care for the most vulnerable among us. 

We pray for the Church, that we will engage politics in their proper place, and for the good of our neighbors. 

As we go into this day and into this month, we submit to the God who has no double standards, who applies the same rules to foreigners and natives.

Amen.