We understand the urgency and gravity of your request, as the right to self-defense is a deeply rooted principle that aligns with the biblical call to protect life and uphold justice. Scripture reminds us that governing authorities are instituted by God to maintain order and punish wrongdoing, yet they must also respect the God-given rights of individuals. In Exodus 22:2-3, we read, *"If the thief is found breaking in, and is struck so that he dies, there shall be no guilt of bloodshed for him. If the sun has risen on him, guilt of bloodshed shall be for him; he shall make restitution. If he has nothing, then he shall be sold for his theft."* This passage underscores the right to defend one’s home and family from harm, a principle that extends to the broader right of self-defense.
At the same time, we are called to submit to governing authorities as far as they do not contradict God’s law (Romans 13:1-7). However, when laws threaten to disarm law-abiding citizens—leaving them vulnerable to evil while emboldening criminals—we must seek God’s intervention. Proverbs 31:8-9 instructs us, *"Open your mouth for the mute, in the cause of all who are left desolate. Open your mouth, judge righteously, and serve justice to the poor and needy."* This is a call to stand against unjust policies that would harm the innocent.
We also recall the words of Jesus in Luke 22:36, where He tells His disciples, *"But now, whoever has a money bag should take it, and likewise a wallet. Whoever has none, let him sell his cloak and buy a sword."* While this passage has layers of meaning, it underscores the reality that there are times when self-defense is necessary in a fallen world. The apostle Paul, too, recognized the role of civil authority in bearing the sword to restrain evil (Romans 13:4), implying that lawful citizens should not be left defenseless against those who would do them harm.
With these truths in mind, we lift this matter before the Lord in prayer, asking for His divine intervention. Let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we come before You as a people who seek Your will and Your justice. You are the God who defends the fatherless, the widow, and the oppressed, and You have called Your people to stand for righteousness. Lord, we ask that You move mightily in the hearts of those in authority in ###. Soften the hearts of lawmakers and turn them away from policies that would disarm law-abiding citizens, leaving them vulnerable to violence and crime. Raise up godly voices in government, in the media, and among the people to speak boldly against this proposed law. Give wisdom and courage to those who oppose it, that they may articulate the truth with clarity and conviction.
Father, we pray for a groundswell of righteous resistance—peaceful, lawful, and firm—against this measure. Stir the hearts of the people to recognize the danger of such a law and to stand united in its rejection. Let not the voices of those who seek to control and disempower the people prevail, but let Your truth and justice shine forth. We ask that You expose any corrupt motives behind this legislation and bring them to light, that the people may see and reject the deception.
Lord, we also pray for the protection of Your people in ###. In a land where violence and crime are rampant, do not allow the innocent to be stripped of their ability to defend themselves and their families. Strengthen the hands of those who stand for freedom and responsibility, and let this law be defeated soundly. May Your will be done, and may Your name be glorified in this situation.
We ask all this in the mighty and holy name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, who is the ultimate defender of the weak and the oppressed. May His authority prevail over every scheme of the enemy. Amen.
Finally, we encourage you to continue standing firm in prayer and to rally others who share this concern. Write to your representatives, engage in peaceful advocacy, and trust that God hears the cries of His people. Remember the words of 2 Chronicles 7:14: *"If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves, pray, seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin, and will heal their land."* Let this be a moment where the Church in ### rises up in prayer and action, trusting that the Lord will intervene for the sake of His name and His people. Stay steadfast, and do not lose heart. The battle belongs to the Lord!