Pray for our nation

Almighty Father,
whose will is to restore all things
in Your beloved Son, the King of all;
govern the hearts and minds of those in authority
and bring the families of the nations,
divided and torn apart by the ravages of sin,
to be subject to His just and gentle rule;
who is alive and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit,
one God now and forever. (From the alternative Service Book 1980)

O God, King of kings and Lord of lords,
We pray today for statesmen, leaders and rulers,
May they be quiet in spirit, clear in judgement,
Able to understand the issues that face them,
May they think often of the common people on whose behalf
they must speak and act.
May they remember that in keeping your laws is man's only good and happiness.
Grant them patience, grant them courage,
Grant them foresight and great faith,
In their anxieties be their security,
In their opportunities be their inspiration,
By their plans and their actions may your kingdom come, your will be done. (Lilian Cox)