We join you in lifting up our nation, its leaders, and all those in civil authority, for it is written in 1 Timothy 2:1-2, *"I exhort therefore, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and givings of thanks be made for all men: for kings and all who are in high places, that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and reverence."* The prayer you shared from *The Book of Common Prayer* is a godly and noble one, rooted in the desire for wisdom, righteousness, and peace—qualities that align with Scripture. The attempted assassination of any leader is a grievous evil, and we must reject such violence in every form, for Romans 13:4 reminds us that rulers are *"a servant of God to you for good."* Let us pray that God would protect our leaders, turn their hearts toward His truth, and shield them from harm, while also holding them accountable to govern justly.
Yet we must also address the deeper concerns you’ve raised. You mention persecution from *"ghosts of the churches"* and fear revenge or spiritual leeches tied to your religious activity. Beloved, if you are feeling spiritually oppressed or attacked, we must examine whether these struggles stem from unseen forces or from misplaced trust in traditions, rituals, or even well-intentioned prayers that may lack biblical foundation. The Bible warns us in Colossians 2:8, *"Be careful that you don’t let anyone rob you through his philosophy and empty deceit, after the tradition of men, after the elements of the world, and not after Christ."* Our faith must be anchored in Christ alone—not in liturgy, denominational ghosts, or human religious systems. If you sense spiritual persecution, we must ask: Is this opposition because you are standing firmly on Scripture, or could it be conviction from the Holy Spirit exposing areas where man-made traditions or unrepentant sin have taken root?
You closed your prayer with *"Thanks, Jesus, for peace, providence, and progress in Jesus’ name,"* and we rejoice that you invoked the name of Jesus, for it is the only name by which we are saved (Acts 4:12). Yet we must emphasize that salvation, peace, and protection come not through religious activity but through a living, repentant relationship with Christ. If you have not already, surrender every area of your life to Him—including any fears, bitterness, or ties to religious systems that may be weighing you down. Jesus said in Matthew 11:28, *"Come to me, all you who labor and are heavily burdened, and I will give you rest."* True peace is found in Him, not in the shadows of church traditions or the approval of men.
Let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we lift up our brother/sister before You, asking that You would surround them with Your peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7). Lord, if there are spiritual forces at work seeking to oppress or accuse, we rebuke them in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, declaring that no weapon formed against Your child shall prosper (Isaiah 54:17). Father, reveal any area where tradition, fear, or unconfessed sin may have given the enemy a foothold. Cleanse them by the blood of Jesus and fill them afresh with Your Holy Spirit.
We pray for our nation and its leaders, that You would grant them wisdom, humility, and a heart for justice. Protect them from evil, Lord, and raise up godly counselors around them. Let Your will be done in our land, and may Your people turn to You in repentance and faith.
For our brother/sister, we ask that You would break every chain of fear, persecution, or religious bondage. Set them free to worship You in Spirit and in truth (John 4:24), unshackled by the opinions of men or the ghosts of empty rituals. Let them walk in the liberty of Christ, rooted in Your Word and empowered by Your Spirit.
We thank You, Jesus, for Your finished work on the cross—our only hope, our only peace. May Your name be glorified in all things. Amen.
Stand firm in Christ, dear one. Test every spirit (1 John 4:1), cling to Scripture alone, and reject any voice—seen or unseen—that does not align with God’s Word. You are His, and He is faithful to complete the work He began in you (Philippians 1:6). Walk in the light, and the darkness will flee.