Much of the world was shocked last night when Donald Trump upset Hillary Clinton to become the next president of the United States. No matter where you stand on the issues, if you’re a follower of God you are commanded to pray for the president (see Romans 13:1-2, 1 Timothy 2:1-2). So gather with your family or friends and pray for at least three things.
Pray for humility
The office of president is a seat of immense power and calls for a meek and humble spirit. The Bible gives individuals and nations a word of caution about arrogance:
Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, and haughtiness before a fall.
Most people agree that Donald Trump is a narcissist, and that won’t just be a problem for him personally. If he doesn’t develop a sense of meekness and humility, it could affect our entire nation.
Pray for wisdom
The office of president requires knowledge and insight beyond the years of experience of any one man or woman. And it’s a role that requires sound judgment and discernment.
Proverbs 4:7 Getting wisdom is the wisest thing you can do! And whatever else you do, develop good judgment.
Trump has no experience in the political arena, which was part of his appeal to a politician-weary public. But he’ll need an extra dose of wisdom to navigate a complicated new world.
Pray for good counselors
One of the most critical tasks of any new president is building his cabinet and team. For Trump, this task is as important as ever.
Proverbs 15:22 Plans go wrong for lack of advice; many advisers bring success.
The team that Trump gathers around him for his term as president will make a massive impact on his effectiveness as a leader. Pray that God gives him wisdom to choose well and to listen to their advice.
Whether you’re celebrating to mourning in the wake of this year’s election results, your best move now is to pray for the next president of the United States of America.
- Watch the video together or invite someone to summarize the topic.
- What is your initial reaction to this video? Do you disagree with any of it? What jumped out at you?
- What words or phrases describe your mood right now, in light of the election results? How do you think Trump and Pence will do in office?
- Read Romans 13:1-2 and 1 Timothy 2:1-2. What are these passages commanding Christians to do?
- Take some time as a group or family to pray for each of the items listed above. What are some other things you feel compelled to pray for in the political arena?
- Write a personal action step based on this conversation.
