Presidential Prayers

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.

1 Timothy 2:1–2

On January 20, 1953, the newly sworn-in president, Dwight D. Eisenhower, surprised America by opening his inaugural address with prayer. “My friends,” he said, “before I begin . . . would you permit me the privilege of uttering a little private prayer of my own? And I ask that you bow your heads.”

He then prayed, “Almighty God, as we stand here at this moment, my future associates in the executive branch of government join me in beseeching that Thou will make full and complete our dedication to the service of the people in this throng. . . . Give us . . . the power to discern clearly right from wrong, and allow all our words and actions to be governed thereby.”

Have you prayed today for your national, state, and local leaders? Presidents, prime ministers, and leaders everywhere need our prayers. Our senators, representatives, governors, mayors, and aldermen can be guided and influenced by prayer. Take a page from Eisenhower’s speech, and ask God to give our leaders the ability to discern right from wrong—and to choose the right.