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Looking out to our world (4) – praying for political leaders

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.

1 Tim 2:1-2

Ethiopia will quickly stretch out her hands to God.

Psalm 68:31 (KJV)

The Bible encourages us to pray for our leaders. It is especially important in times of crisis. We want to see countries becoming more peaceful and godly. In Ethiopia, in response to COVID19, President Abiy Ahmed (who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize last year) gave his public blessing to a call for a national month of prayer. He took part in the launch day entitled ‘Ethiopia will submit herself to God’. The Speaker of the House and various Government Ministers also attended. They took Psalm 68:31 as a challenge, inspiration and prophecy.

The President’s wife, Zinash, released a beautiful and haunting worship song, pleading for God’s mercy. She sings about God not abandoning us during this time when the world is terrorised by bad news. As we pray for political leaders across this world, listen first to Zinash’s song, called Maren (God’s mercy) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kr6t8sG04lg and pray for leaders to follow President Abiy’s example and encourage their nations to put their faith in God.

Father of love, we too pray that you would not abandon us. We pray for our leaders, and those around the world, especially in countries facing poverty, that they would respond with wisdom and humility. We pray that leaders would turn to you and lead their countries to a deeper dependence on God. We pray that you will give them compassion and teach them to look outwards, to learn from others and to join together across borders to care for the most vulnerable.

Listen to the Father now and ask him to bring to mind a particular country and leader and to reveal a verse, picture or phrase to pray over them. Stretch out your hands to God where you are as a symbol of joining with others across the world to pray for their leaders.

Mark Searle, 22/04/2020