A number of years ago in my morning prayer time, I found myself praying for my boss who headed up a legal department for a large oil company.  He was an exacting boss, but a good person with impeccable integrity. 

While praying, I received the thought,“Why are you limiting your prayers just for your direct boss – why not his boss and the entire management team including the CEO and board of directors?  Pray for wisdom, integrity and love in how they oversee the operations of the company.  Your prayers can impact areas and operations of the company far beyond your immediate responsibilities and sphere of influence.”

At the time, this was a new revelation to me.  As Christians in the workplace, we have the opportunity through prayer to impact more than just our particular job or position.  We can intercede for God’s grace to impact our bosses and the decisions they make.  We may not always see the results of our prayers, but we should never underestimate their power and influence.

The Book of Exodus reports that when the Amalekites attacked the Israelites in the desert at Rephidim, Moses stood on top of a hill with his arms raised and the staff of God in his hands.  As long as Moses held up his hands, the Israelites were winning, but when he lowered his hands the Amalekites gained in the fight.  So Aaron and Hur had Moses sit on a rock as they held up his hands until sunset, and the Israelites won the battle. (Exodus 17:8-16)

Praying for our leaders is a way for us to hold up their hands in the battle they face in doing their jobs with integrity, concern for people, and excellence. 

All kinds of leaders need our prayers.  Pastors and spiritual leaders are in particular need of our prayer.   One of the first statements Pope Francis made after his election as he greeted the throngs in St. Peter’s square was to ask people to pray for him.  He continues to repeat this request to nearly every individual and group he meets.

Governmental leaders also need our prayer support.  Their positions make them especially vulnerable to temptations involving pride and corruption.  Regardless of our politics, we can regularly pray for the president’s protection, righteousness, and wisdom.  Remember the words of Jeremiah to the exiles in Babylon, “Work for the good of the country to which I have exiled you; pray to Yahweh on its behalf, since on its welfare yours depends.” (Jeremiah 29:7 JB)

Like Aaron and Hur, let us support the hands of our bosses, pastors, and leaders in community and government with our ongoing intercession and prayer.

How do you support people in leadership – bosses, community and government leaders, pastors, etc.?