In every ideal society, the police is seen as a very important arm of the state machinery that are needed to bring a nation to the required level of greatness.
For there to be absolute peace and tranquility the police force is first to be relied upon but unfortunately it is not as such in Nigeria, for an average Nigerian sees every member of the force as his or her enemy.
If asked to take a stand on either to pray for the police or rain curses, many Nigerians, surely would go for the later.
It appears that those in the Force are also aware of this disposition towards them, hence a question that makes the cover in one of the Christian Police Fellowship (CPFN) tracks that “ Why should I pray for Police: You can read what you have below for your understanding.
Why Should I Pray for the Police, It’s indeed a million Naira question, considering the public perception of the police.
But it’s a question that will bless your life, if you answer positively. Are you considering praying for the police? You may ask yourself if the Police actually need prayers.
One is tempted to ask, how many Churches and men of God find time to pray for the Police? It is very necessary that they do.
The role of the Police is strategic and it cannot be undermined if any society must attain greatness. It is a fact that some people out of share hatred for the Police do curse them while others do not see anything good about the Police. Some are even indifferent, may be as a result of their experience with officers.
If you must curse the Police then be sure to be very righteous so that you will be justified to cast the first stone.
(As when a harlot was brought to Jesus in Bible) Be reminded that the effect of curses is collective. It has a way of affecting everyone.
It’s therefore necessary to change our attitude in this regard and begin to pray for the Police.
Why you must pray for your police, many people are familiar with Jesus instruction to visit those in the prison.
But are not mindful of God command in Romans 13, to honor, respect and pray for those in authority. One may see the need for a Prison Ministry, but may question the need for evangelism in the Police.
Some may have concluded in their mind that Police Officers souls have been sold to the devil.
You may be interested to know that the first Gentile to be converted to Christianity in the book of Acts 10 is a God fearing man named Cornelius.
He is an Officer of the law, an arm bearer, a security chief, and of course a Police Officer.
Are you aware the scripture speaks favorably of a Roman Centurion? The Lord was so amazed at his faith.
He is an army officer a Chief local law enforcement agent of his days. Apostle Paul made it a point to share the good news of Jesus with the officers of his time, not minding the way he was being treated by them. Philippians 1:12 and 13, Act 16:20-34.
Too many people see Police Officers as brutal, corrupt and wicked, they see them as people who do not need God nor deserving of God’s mercy. Let it be known that officers inhabit a world most people never know and can’t comprehend.
They see things most people never see, most of which are bad, and some are horrific and very disgusting.
Most officers live, a life of physical and emotional stress, hurt, ambush and hatred. These burdens notwithstanding, they are expected to be super human; expected to carry out extraordinary, dangerous and difficult tasks without excuse or default.
Tell me if it is possible to carry out such a task without Jesus. If your answer is no, then get ready to pray for Police.
You may not be convinced believing that Police officers are employed and paid to do those task. Yes it is, but be informed that the pay cannot compensate for the risk and damages suffered by offices and their families, simply for protecting your life and properties.
The Lord said that the greatest Love you can show is to give your life for your friend (John 15:3). Most officers will passionately give their life to protect the citizen.
By this, Police Officers are your friends even if you do not consider them to be one.
You may not care or see anything good about them. You may not even see any reason why you should waste your precious time in praying for the Police.
If your reason is because of an encounter. You are solicited today to remember the command of our Lord. He demanded of you to make disciple of all nations. Mark 15:16. The Police is inclusive.
As a believer, you are not allowed to hate. If your experience with the Police is your reason for not caring and invariably considering the Police as your worst enemy.
We advised Nigerians to keep faith in the word of the Lord that enjoined you to love your enemy and pray for those that persecute you.
Romans 12:4. Be reminded that God cares. Jesus died for everybody includes the Police on the Cross. He wants Police Officers to walk the path of eternal life.
Be a partner with God, be a minister of Peace, intercede for peace and pray for the peace of the Officers, they are the peace Maker. Matthew 5:9: ‘ who eventually is the Police. Pray for your Police, because it’s the plan of God to safe this nation. Your prayer count.
If you are not a believer and you are touched to pray for the Police, you need to repent for your sins for the Bible says that the Prayer of a sinner is an abomination unto the Lord Proverb 15:8.
Confess your sins and surrender your life to Jesus. Pray this prayer-Heavenly Father, thank you for your salvation. Today, I confess my sins before you. Have mercy on me and forgive all my sins through the blood of Jesus your son. I open my heart unto you Lord Jesus, come into my heart and be my Lord and Savior.
If you have sincerely prayed this prayer, believe that your sins have been forgiven. You are now a believer, a child of God. You can NOW pray for your POLICE.
For more information: Contact the nearest Fellowship Centre in any Police Station or Formation close to you or Lord of Lords Chapel, Lagos State Command Headquarters, Ikeja Lagos. This Track was released to the Christian Events Watch by: Former Co-ordinator of Christian Police Fellowship of Nigeria, Lagos Chapter.
ACP Matthew A. Amos (Retired)..