8 Prayers for Election Season

offered by Bethany Verrett

(Published in Crosswalk.com)

            Every four years, the nation focuses on the national political arena, studies two candidates and two agendas, then decides between them in a presidential election. Leading up to the vote, Christians should consider what is best for the country, what agenda best reflects biblical values and prescription for governance, and most importantly, pray that God’s will and His plan would be implemented here on earth.

            Prayer is one of the most important actions during an election, next to voting. A vote made due to worldly concerns, overpowering emotions, or with cold logic that does not seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit is one that risks being a foolish vote. Throughout the Bible there are assurances that God will always guide us if believers turn to Him in prayer and ask for His help. “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you” (James 1:5).

            Prayer is the ultimate connection between God and His people, and when people have important decisions to make, like who to vote for in a presidential election, lifting the decision up to the Lord is a wise starting place. Here are eight prayers for the 2020 election season:

A Prayer for the 2020 Election

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank you for the opportunity to have a voice in the way my government runs. I praise you for the vote that I have. During this time of debate, diffusion, and decision-making, please have Your sovereign hand over this country. Please keep our country healthy during this season. Give us the peace that passes understanding about the vote, and the outcome. You Word says that You change the times and the seasons, so You are in control of this phase in our nation’s history. I ask for the season to not be volatile, and that our nation would see You in it.

In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen. 

A Prayer for the Presidential Candidates

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank you for democracy, and for the opportunity to pick our leaders on a rotating basis. Lord, I ask that you would be with all the candidates who are running for office. Please keep them physically healthy and strong, and focused on the task before them. Turn their hearts toward you, O Lord. May they fear and revere You above all else. Help them to present their agendas clearly and honestly. Be with their vice-presidential picks as well, that they may be of help. I ask that the vice-presidential candidates’ hearts and minds be open to You as well. In the Bible, You tell us that to be a leader, he or she must also be a servant; please instill a spirit of servanthood in both candidates in all their future endeavors, whether they win this election or not. Protect the candidates, and may they be obedient to Your will.

In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

A Prayer for the Candidates’ Families

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank you for families who are willing to make sacrifices to be a part of government, and to support those who obey the call to participate in democratic government. Please give them the strength to endure criticism and scrutiny. Help them feel your presence and comfort during hard times, and help them endure the difficulties that come with being a public figure. Give them wisdom and let them provide good counsel when it is needed. Keep the families together, and let them love one another no matter the outcome of the election. May Your Word be a lamp unto their feet, and a light to their paths.

In Jesus Christ’s name I pray, Amen. 

            Let’s use these prayers as a way to turn election season from one of conflict, anxiety, and fear to one of growing closer to God, loving your brothers and sisters in Christ better, and focusing on voting as the Spirit leads, rather than by earthly concerns.  (I will share the last 5 prayers next week).