We’re Called to Pray for Our (Political) Enemies
Politics divide. The entire process requires that we pick sides. Whether we are choosing between political parties, interest groups, or even ideological movements within the same party, at some point we will have to pick a side. As a candidate I had to choose my alliances and decide whether I was going to go after an organization’s endorsement or not. If I pursued one group, it spoke volumes to other groups. If I didn’t go after an interest group’s endorsement, it also said something loud and clear to them, and others as well.
As we approach the 2024 elections, we will see more ads, campaigns and divisions abound. However, I believe that while political activity is divisive, but it doesn’t have to be hostile. Like anything in life, operating within government requires that we state an opinion and work within a system that is already functioning. It requires compromise at some level in order to work within a diverse group of people—whether that is in Congress, an administration, or at the state, county, or city level.
From the very beginning, I have always seen politics as a mission field and have not been afraid to share my faith, minister to people in political clubs or conventions, or even share the Word with elected officials. I have tried to see people as people, though in the heat of political battle that can be extremely difficult.
Just like anyone else, those in politics need Jesus, too. Just as the division doesn’t have to be hostile, Christ came for everyone, regardless if we agree with them on every single topic or not.
Leading a non-partisan ministry that encourages Christians to pray, vote, and engage—we send out prayer prompts each week, reminders to vote around every election, and educational and inspirational steps for Christians to engage. On Monday, January 25, 2021, our ministry sent out a prayer prompt just as we do every Monday. That day it read:
“Today, let’s pray for the new President, Vice President, and their administration in accordance with I Timothy 2, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. Let’s pray for our authorities to operate in righteousness, wisdom, and godliness. READ and PRAY 1 Timothy 2:1–2.”
That day we had more people unsubscribe than I could fathom. I was shocked at the response of self-professed Christians who, on Inauguration Day, January 20, 2021, refused to pray for our new President, Joe Biden, and Vice President, Kamala Harris. We are failing as the body of Christ to truly engage in politics if we do not remain kingdom people. We must obey the Word of God and follow the Spirit of Christ regardless of our voting records or political affiliations.
In politics we must choose sides when we vote and when we govern. But as Christians, we must remember that we live in an upside-down kingdom. We move against the flow of the world and love and pray for people regardless of the label behind their names. God’s love is deeper and wider than our prejudices if we will allow Him to work in our hearts. To bring the kingdom of God here on earth and especially through politics requires us to pray for people in all earnestness with open and humble hearts so God can do what only He can do.
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