As Liz Truss takes up the reins during a period predicted to be beset with crises and complaints, Christians should start as we mean to go on - by praying for our leaders - says Christians in Politics’ Andy Flannagan
Creation and creatures applaud you, God;
your holy people bless you.
They talk about the glories of your rule,
they exclaim over your splendor,
Letting the world know of your power for good,
the lavish splendor of your kingdom.
Your kingdom is a kingdom eternal;
you never get voted out of office.
God always does what he says,
and is gracious in everything he does.
Psalm 145
We pray to you O God, for even though your glory and authority reside above the political realm, you are passionate about the detail of ruling with righteousness and justice. May the new prime minister govern with integrity.
We pray to the God who said he was the way, the truth and the life (John 14:6). Truth is only found in you. May the new prime minister govern in truth.
Many of us merely commentate from the safety of our armchairs or phones, so we pray for Liz Truss who has stepped forward to serve – that she would govern with grace.
Many of us could not cope with the scale of the challenges that face the new prime minister, so we pray that she would govern with wisdom.
Many of us did not vote for the new prime minister, but we pray that she would govern with love.
Many of us may disagree with the new prime minister on many things, but we pray that she would govern with justice.
You call us to pray for our leaders. So we do.
You call us to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves. So we do.
You call us to love our enemies. So we do.
You showed us the way to lead when you washed your disciples’ feet. May the new prime minister govern in humility.
May your will be done and your kingdom come in the United Kingdom as it is in heaven.
Amen
