Why we need to pray for our new King...
June Freudenberg considers how we should pray for our new monarch following his coronation
Recently I was reading through the books of Kings in the Bible. It was so obvious that when a king followed God the country prospered, but when they failed to do so, everything went down like a lead balloon!
If I needed to be reminded, this would have been that prompt – we need to pray for our new King.
Monarchs have a vast and important role within the nation. As Head of State they undertake a variety of duties that relate to our country’s constitution. As Head of the Nation they also represent our country to the rest of the world.
I am not certain that everyone realised how fortunate we were to have Queen Elizabeth II as monarch. There was a definite effect on the nation because of the way she fulfilled her duties and responsibilities.
She followed the Lord and dedicated herself to her role and her faith. Her Bible was well read.
Everyone knew what she believed, not least from her Christmas messages. She won respect. Even people who were not royalists accepted what she had to say.
But now we have a new King and our understanding of his beliefs have given cause for concern.
King Charles, it is reported, believes it is important to honour religions in general. He does not seem to know how important it is to honour God or his power. It seems he is trying to be all things to all people. This is one reason among many why we need to pray for him.
We need to pray that the coronation oaths will have a real impact on King Charles III and Queen Camilla. Let us pray this will happen and that they will have a personal encounter with the Lord.
Praise God that we live in a country where we are free to pray without penalty for our King and for the Queen too.
But why should we pray? Whether or not we are royalists, it is a privilege to be able to pray, and it is our God-given responsibility as well.
Firstly, we do so because God instructs us in 1 Timothy 2 to pray for all in authority, no matter who they may be, no matter what our personal opinion about them or their positions may be.
Secondly, we pray because the Lord tells us to honour the position and pray for the person in it. This is particularly important for anyone who isn’t a supporter of royalty. Honouring the King doesn’t turn us into royalists!
Lastly, it is our responsibility to pray because the leadership of a nation affects what can be achieved socially, legally, economically and more.
For that reason alone, I’m passionate about praying for Parliament and all our leaders, because the Lord promises as a result that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.
Our Scripture mandate and responsibility
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.
1 Timothy 2: 1-2
Three ways to pray for King Charles
Pray for King Charles as a person – those in authority have needs as people. Pray King Charles’ needs as a leader and family member will be met. Pray for health, strength and wisdom.
Pray for the King as a spiritual being – pray he will encounter God and come to know him as his Lord and Saviour. Pray for the King with thanks – we are called to give thanks for all people. This includes those in authority, not just those we know and like.
Pray for the King as a monarch – positions of authority are put in place by God but the people who hold them need our prayers. Pray he will fulfil his duties in a God-honouring way
Rev June Freudenberg is Elim’s Prayer for Parliaments representative
This article first appeared in the June 2023 edition of Direction Magazine. For further details, please click here.