“First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.”
1 Timothy 2:1-4
The Lord’s Apostle considered prayer for others to be the most important thing that we do. “First of all,” he said.
He especially calls us to pray for those in authority. He says that our prayers for them will result in peace and quiet so that we can live dignified, godly Christian lives, and be free to preach the Gospel. Prayer for our governing authorities will result in freedom of religion for us!
In its context, even the statement that “God desires all people to be saved” is not primarily an exhortation to preach, but to pray.
Because of our rebellious hearts, our natural tendency is to complain about others, and especially about anyone in authority. God calls us to pray for them instead. When you catch yourself starting to complain about someone, let that be a reminder to stop and pray for that person instead.
Lord, now more than ever I need to pray, especially for those you have placed in authority over me. Forgive my sinful, rebellious complaints about them and fill my heart with “supplication, prayer, intercession and thanksgiving” for them. Give us peace and tranquility so that your Word can be lived and taught freely in our land. Amen.
Pastor Dan Giles