Prayer For Trump?

I remember thinking as I read Obama derangement syndrome posts in my Facebook feed last year, don't they know what the Bible teaches about the relationship of Christians to their rulers? The same thoughts are occurring today as I look in my Facebook feed with regard to Trump. 

I remember the scene from Fiddler on the Roof where the rabbi is asked about prayer for the Czar. The suggested prayer was along the lines of "keep the czar safe, and far away from us."

While because of various pogroms against the Jews this is understandable, it does not fit the spirit of the Hebrew Scriptures. 

Do not revile the king even in your thoughts,

or curse the rich in your bedroom,

because a bird in the sky may carry your words,

and a bird on the wing may report what you say.

Eccl 10 20

While this is more advice than a command, it is good advice. If you say negative things in private, it may spill over at a time you don't want it too. 

Thou shalt not revile the gods, nor curse the ruler of thy people. Ex 22:28 (KJV)

There is some ambiguity about the word "gods" here. The word is Elohim and can mean the true God, gods in general or judges. I lean toward the latter interpretation. This is why David, who was fleeing from King Saul, never condemned Saul. Saul wanted David dead, responding in kind would seem normal, yet David did not do so. 

The Greek scriptures continue this pattern. 

I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— 2for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. 3This is good, and pleases God our Savior, I Tim 2. 22

Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.1 Peter 2:17

It must be remembered that the king or emperor referenced was the Roman emperor who had the authors of these passages killed. Yet, they were to be honored and prayed for. 

I tend to have an anabaptist approach to religion-so structure is suspect.  As a result I personally have not done too well in this area. I remember praying for Obama on occasion, but never for Bush! As for Trump, it has not been that long since he became president, even though it seems like an eternity. I prayed for him on his inauguration, but not since. The Orthodox Church seems to have it more correct. They build such prayers right into their liturgy. 

I imagine that people blog for different reasons. Mostly I blog for myself. If you happen to come along for the ride, well the more the merrier. This particular blog post, if it actually appears, will be set to post some time in the future. If it appears that will mean I have prayed for Trump for a while and recommend it. 

Remember that while God can and does intervene, the purpose of prayer is not that. Prayer is good because it changes us as people. Are you up to having some changes in your life? It might even change what you post on Facebook.