Introduction: In the title I say "President," but Psalm 21 uses the word "King," and in our time could apply to anyone in a position of political power: a Senator, Cabinet Member, Supreme Court Judge and so on. What kind of President do we need?

I. We need a person who rejoices in Jehovah's strength (vs. 1).

A. Those who have power are greatly tempted to let power go to their heads. Consider King Herod, who had just executed James and tried to execute Peter:

Acts 12:21 On the appointed day Herod, wearing his royal robes, sat on his throne and delivered a public address to the people.
Acts 12:22 They shouted, "This is the voice of a god, not of a man."
Acts 12:23 Immediately, because Herod did not give praise to God, an angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died.

B. Jesus reminded Pilate that all who have political power get it from God:

John 19:9 "Where do you come from?" he asked Jesus, but Jesus gave him no answer.
John 19:10 "Do you refuse to speak to me?" Pilate said. "Don't you realize I have power either to free you or to crucify you?"
John 19:11 Jesus answered, "You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above.

C. We need leaders who acknowledge that their power is a gift from God, and who rejoice in God's power, not their own.

II. We need a person who prays for salvation (vss. 4 and 7).

A. David asked for eternal life, and rejoiced at God's gift of salvation.

B. We should thank God for our national leaders who are clearly Christians.

C. We are all sinners, and we all need a Savior.

D. It is our duty to pray regularly for our leaders, and we should pray especially for Christian leaders.

III. We need a person who has splendor and majesty (verse 5).

A. This is more than wealth and position. This is inner character that manifests itself outwardly.

B. We need leaders with integrity, honesty, morality, selflessness and statesmanship.

Conclusion: What kind of President do we want? What kind of mayor, governor, senators, congressmen and women? Those who rejoice in Jehovah's strength, and acknowlede that power comes from God. Those who have prayed for salvation and eternal life. And those who have characters that radiate splendor and majesty. Amen.