As a new leader enters the White House, Rev. Mike Slaughter blesses his term with scriptural wisdom.
MIKE SLAUGHTER
For Ministry Matters
I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior….” — Apostle Paul, 1 Timothy 2:1-3
On Friday, Donald Trump became the 45th President of the United States. God’s word directs Jesus’ followers to pray for all of our leaders — and certainly that includes President Trump — his health, his heart, his family and a peaceful transition into the presidency.
Yet after such a contentious election cycle and amidst continuing, bitter divides, many may be struggling with where and how to begin their prayers — especially those who may have voted differently or consider themselves in opposition to Mr. Trump’s platform, nominees or campaign promises.
God’s word declares in Isaiah 55:11, “My word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire.” So, I am praying the scriptures….
Like the psalmist in Psalm 72 praying urgently for God’s endowment of justice on the king, I pray that through his presidency Mr. Trump brings justice for the poor (vs. 12a), health for the afflicted (vs. 12b) and rescue for all from oppression and violence (vs. 14).
I pray that Mr. Trump’s presidency will demonstrate love for the refugees among us, knowing that Abraham, Jacob, Joseph, Ruth, Daniel, Nehemiah and Jesus knew intimately what it meant to be a stranger in a strange land. “When a foreigner resides among you in your land, do not mistreat them. The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt. I am the Lord your God” (Leviticus 19:33-34).
Like King David, may President Trump shepherd the country with “skillful hands” and “integrity of heart” (Psalm 78:72). May he remember as he serves in the most visible position on the planet, that “the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.” “A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart” (Luke 6:45).
May all of us who identify ourselves as persons of faith join with President Trump over the next four years in carefully heeding James 4:10 — “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.”
Let it be so.
Last Updated on November 9, 2023