Political leaders, especially during times of national and global crises, often make decisions that will affect the lives of God's servants. Whether those serving God will be able to live "a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence" often depends on the soundness and wisdom of those decisions.

Therefore it is good and appropriate that we pray for God to aid and influence, according to His will and wisdom, those making critical governmental decisions. This is especially true when such decisions would dramatically impact the lives of those who genuinely want to please God and do His will. Also, we should consider that praying for government leaders demonstrates love to all our fellowman, because everyone is affected by the decisions of their rulers.

Praying for "all who are in authority"—regardless of whether they personally believe in and serve the living God—is an appropriate way we can show godly appreciation, respect and concern for their service to us. The Scriptures also admonish us to submit willingly to their leadership, insofar as it does not require us to disobey God (Acts 5:29). In the case of corrupt or despotic rulers, it certainly would not be wrong to pray to God that such a person change or be removed from office.

"Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers [as a general class of public servants] are not a terror to good works, but to evil.

"Do you want to be unafraid of the authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same. For he is God's minister to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God's minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil. Therefore you must be subject, not only because of wrath but also for conscience' sake" (Romans 13:1-5).