Now in the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, that the word of the Lord spoken by the mouth of Jeremiah might be accomplished, the Lord stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia, that he made a proclamation throughout all his kingdom, and put it also in writing, saying, Thus saith Cyrus king of Persia, All the kingdoms of the earth hath the Lord God of heaven given me; and he hath charged me to build him an house in Jerusalem, which is in Judah. Who is there among you of all his people? The Lord his God be with him, and let him go up. (2 Chronicles 36:22-23)
How are you praying for your current political leadership? How are you praying for the leaders all over the world? How are your prayers for potential leaders? These verses depict how God moved upon the heart of an unbelieving and evil king, Cyrus of Persia, to make a proclamation that would allow the Jewish people to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple. God can use anyone He desires, regardless of their background or beliefs, to accomplish His will.
That’s why we are called to pray for leaders and all who are in authority. Your opinion should not change your prayers. You can have political, personal, and ethical views and not allow them to change your position in prayer. Keep your mouth shut about speaking against leaders and those in authority, and keep your mouth open when praying for their wisdom, security, and God-ordained connections to speak into their lives.
The story of Cyrus reminds us that God is always at work, often in ways we cannot see or understand. He can use anyone to fulfill His purposes and bring about His promises. As believers, we should remain prayerful, trust that He has a plan, and be ready to act, speak, or pray when He stirs our hearts to do so.
Practical Application
Pray for your national and local leaders today. Ask God to stir their hearts toward righteousness and justice. Believe that God can use them to bring His will to pass in their realm of influence.