How People of Integrity and Prayer Bless a Nation

Mar 30

Mar 30 How People of Integrity and Prayer Bless a Nation

Proverbs Devo, God's Word, Personal Faith, Wisdom

Prayerfully thankful

We lived overseas for 15 years. When I hear people complain about the government, I think of the many places I’ve traveled. I know from experience these complaints are short-sighted, with a narrow focus.

It doesn’t matter where a person’s convictions fall on the political spectrum. We all judge things based on our personal views, through the lens of our bias and opinions.

No government is perfect because they’re made of people. None of us are perfect. But some governments provide more safety and stability than others. A few afford freedoms and opportunities not commonly found elsewhere.

Living and traveling overseas usually gives a person a clearer perspective on all of this. Unless they shut their eyes—blinded by arrogance, indifference, and prejudice.

As an observer of history and people, I’ve gained some perspective over the years. Things aren’t nearly as dire as some would have you believe, nor as wonderful as others might say.

I’ve learned to be thankful and prayerful.

Scripture

Arrogance comes, then comes shame, but wisdom remains with humble people.
Integrity guides decent people, but hypocrisy leads treacherous people to ruin.
The righteousness of innocent people makes their road smooth,
but wicked people fall by their own wickedness.
Decent people are saved by their righteousness,
but treacherous people are trapped by their own greed.
When righteous people prosper, a city is glad.
When wicked people die, there are songs of joy.
With the blessing of decent people a city is raised up,
but by the words of wicked people, it is torn down.
A nation will fall when there is no direction,
but with many advisers there is victory. (Proverbs 11:2-3, 5-6, 10-11, 14 GW)

(Context—Proverbs 11:1-14 GW)

Proverbs 11

Simple Insights

I’m thankful for the Lord’s kindness and provision, the time and place in history I was born into and live. I’m grateful for the truth and wisdom God gives, which brings me clarity and perspective.

I’m prayerful for my nation and for leaders to have integrity. When people of integrity lead a nation, it opens the door for prosperity beyond economics. A prosperity not defined by wealth but by favor and well-being.

That’s what I think of when I read these verses in Proverbs. I know that people of integrity—people of character—are a blessing to their communities and spheres of influence. Whether people in civic, local, regional, or national roles of leadership.

I know there’s a great need for people of integrity to be raised up in civic, business, and spiritual arenas. When people of integrity lead—people of understanding who are trustworthy in spirit—there is joy, gladness, and prosperity of well-being.

The next time you find yourself complaining about the government or leaders in any other sector of life, take some time to be thankful and pray for integrity instead. It will help adjust your perspective and help you see God’s blessings and help you become a blessing.

I believe this is why the prophet Daniel had such great favor with the emperors he served under (Daniel 2:46-49; 6:28) and why the apostles, Paul and Peter, exhort us to pray for those in positions of authority (Rom 13:1-7; 1 Peter 2:13-17).

These men knew what it was like to live under tyranny and oppression. They had an eternal perspective and were thankful, prayerful men of God.

Reflection—

We're told that when the righteous—people of integrity—are leaders, it's a blessing to everyone and brings honor to a city, even a nation.

Prayer Focus—

Pray for leaders with integrity to be raised up in all spheres of government and influence—including local and national, civic, business, and spiritual leaders. And as you pray, be thankful!

Would you like a free study guide for Proverbs?

Click Here to Get a Free Study Guide for Proverbs

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases (books mentioned and linked).