Praying for and Speaking to Leaders

“All the saints greet you, but especially those who are of Caesar’s household.” [1]

People in the Emperor’s household had become saints.

Wait! Wasn’t Caesar the one who persecuted Christians?

Adam Clarke wrote about this verse in his commentary:

“Nero was at this time emperor of Rome: a more worthless, cruel, and diabolic wretch never disgraced the name or form of man; yet in his family there were Christians: but whether this relates to the members of the imperial family, or to guards, or courtiers, or to servants, we cannot tell.”

Paul wrote that his witness for Christ was impacting people in the palace: “it has become evident to the whole PALACE guard, and to all the rest, that my chains are in Christ.” [2]

There are instances recorded throughout the Bible of such happenings. For example, the servant girl who directed the great General Naaman of the Syrian Army! [3] God’s prophets Moses, Elijah, Jeremiah, Daniel and Nehemiah gave direction from God to powerful kings.

During the time of my Gospel ministry in China, the Lord blessed me with opportunities to speak to government leaders in Guangzhou, Dong Guan and Beijing. I say this not to boast, but to confirm God’s Word, namely, He makes ways for His servants to influence authorities.

A Psalmist wrote, “He makes my feet like the feet of deer and sets me on my high places.” [4]

A king wrote, “The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord, like the rivers of water; He turns it wherever He wishes.” [5]

Paul encouraged his protégé Timothy, “I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.” [6]

“Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for embedding Your servants in high places so that the leaders of nations might hear Your voice. Please direct our leaders to flow with Your will. In Jesus’ Name we pray, Amen.”

[1] Philippians 4:22
[2] Philippians 1:13
[3] 2 Kings 5:1-4
[4] Psalm 18:33
[5] Proverbs 21:1
[6] 1 Timothy 2:1-2