The prayers below are developed from Shropshire Hope prayers written in 2014, about National and Local Government.

Jul 1 – It is probably fair to say that the general public’s view of those who serve in Government, either local or national, is not a positive one. A succession of scandals, and examples of poor conduct and self-interest regretfully give the impression that all those who offer themselves in public service (for that indeed is what they do) have a hidden agenda.

However, the truth is that the majority serve with dedication and self-sacrifice, working tremendously hard in the best interests of country, county, and local communities.

It is therefore so important that we pray for our MP’s, County Councillors, Borough, Town and Parish Councillors, Mayors, and Police and Crime Commissioners – that God will grant them wisdom when decisions need to be made, an ability to serve the greater challenges of national and international issues, and also fill them with a heart for justice and compassion, particularly for the most vulnerable in our society.

It is rare for such people to be publicly thanked for their service, but we also offer prayers of thanks for their service in pursuit of policies that work for the good of all. In Jesus’ name. Amen

Jul 2 – Lord Jesus, we pray today for all who govern us, both nationally and locally, as well as all who work in the Civil Service, and other branches of government.

For our national government, we pray that the new government elected on Thursday will govern with integrity, fairness and justice, appreciating all the needs within our society when making laws and decisions.

Able to lead the UK in the international settings with a clear and wise understanding.

As those with responsibility to manage the country through this next Parliament, we pray that they would prioritise help for the vulnerable and needy, and that the essential services – healthcare, education, welfare, defence and foreign affairs – would be well maintained.

That our nation will be blessed by its new government, and that our public finances will improve under their tenure. Amen

Jul 3 – We pray for Your guidance in the election of all the MP’s in the 650 Parliamentary Constituencies across the UK. That in the discussions in the new Parliament will be a balance between protecting national interests and working for the good of all the people within the four nations of the United Kingdom.

We pray for our local authorities and town councils, that on a local level they may manage local resources and services in the best way possible.

We thank you for the individuals who offer their lives in public service – for our MP’s, county, borough, town and parish councillors, mayors and police and crime commissioners. In Jesus’ name. Amen

Jul 4 – Father, we pray for every candidate standing for election today. We ask for those who will be elected – that they will be endowed with the knowledge, understanding, wisdom and compassion needed for high office.

We ask for all those who will not be elected, especially those existing MP’s who lose their seats – for grace, strength and Your hope to fill their lives.

That all elected today will serve with caring hearts for the many people who are affected by the decisions they make. We pray specifically for Christians in public service that they remain strong in their beliefs and convictions, and endeavour to do the right thing for the good of all – and not to be swayed by political pressure, self-interest, or by the desire to remain popular. 

We ask for real breakthrough in the Civil Service saving many in Christ, and transforming it into a service that serves rather than trying to push an anti-Christ agenda. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Jul 5 – Father, we especially ask for Your favour on those in local, national and international government who are born-again believers – regardless of their political views and affiliations.

Strengthen and uphold them, enable them to stand for righteousness, justice and equality.

We ask that today as results are announced, as the Media and commentators give their take on the General Election, our nation will remember that it is only in Christ that any people are truly saved.

Revive our nation, turn it in repentance and faith to Christ. Amen.

July 6 – 1Timothy 2:1-4 (NIVUK) ‘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. This is good, and pleases God our Saviour, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.’ 

Lord Jesus, thank You how these verses link praying for those in authority with people coming to faith in You. When we pray in accordance with Your Kingdom coming and Your will being done; we acknowledge that You always act in sovereign power! Amen.

Jul 7 – Father, we pray for all the MPs elected for our county constituencies: Ludlow – North Shropshire – Shrewsbury & Atcham – Telford – The Wrekin.

Also all local County and Borough councillors in Shropshire County Council, and Telford & Wrekin Borough Council. Both councils are Unitary Authorities with responsibility for a wide range of public services.

The Provision of essential services including Healthcare, Social Welfare, Children’s Services, and Highways and Transport. 

We pray for wisdom as their day by day duties continue – that they will be wise, productive for the greater good, and good custodians of the public offices they hold.

Pray that our Government would turn back to the Christian values on which our country was built. In Jesus’ name. Amen.