What Should Christians Pray for Our Country?

Labor Day gives us an opportunity to appreciate the work millions of people do every day to support their families, serve their communities, and help our country function.

But perhaps it should also remind Christians of another responsibility: praying for the country in which we live.

Pray for Our Leaders

It is easy to talk about our leaders. It is easy to criticize them. Scripture challenges us to do something more important—pray for them.

Paul urged believers to offer “petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving” for kings and all those in authority (1 Timothy 2:1–2).

Notice that Paul didn’t say to pray only for leaders we like or agree with. Our country needs leaders at every level who exercise wisdom, integrity, courage, compassion, and sound judgment. Instead of merely asking God to “bless our leaders,” pray specifically that He will guide their decisions and lead them toward what is good and right.

Pray for More Than Politics

Our prayers for America shouldn’t stop with government.

Pray for the people who go to work every day. Pray for employers and employees. Pray for teachers, first responders, healthcare workers, business owners, military personnel, and those struggling to find meaningful work.

Pray for families and communities. Pray for justice and peace. Pray that people will seek truth and have the courage to live by it. And pray for yourself. Ask God to show you how you can contribute to the good of your community and country through the way you work, serve, speak, and treat others.

This Labor Day, don’t just celebrate the contributions of America’s workers.

Take a few minutes to pray for our country.

Want to Go Deeper?

Sometimes we want to pray but aren’t sure what to pray about. What Should I Pray? was created for exactly that challenge. This personal prayer guide provides hundreds of specific prayer ideas covering your relationship with God, your life, other people, leaders, communities, and the world—helping you turn good intentions into more purposeful prayer.

Until next time — get wisdom and pursue truth.

Blessings, Steve