Scripture –
1 Timothy 2:1 – 4 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 come to the knowledge of the truth.
Observation –
Paul is writing to encourage his protégé Timothy who is pastoring a church in Ephesus. Paul is urging that the church be in prayer for all people including leaders who are in high positions. Prayer for leaders is so we can live in a peaceful and godly manner. God likes this and wants all to be saved and know the truth.
Application –
There has never in my life been a time that these versus are more applicable than the current era in which we are living. Prayer needs to be for everyone: for believers, for the lost, for injustices, for repentance from sin/evil and for our nation’s leaders. The why behind prayer for our nation’s leaders is for our lives not to be dominated by conflict to live in a manner that reflects Jesus and we are able to be Ambassadors for Christ. This is why it is important to have and not take for granted the religious liberties that we enjoy today. God is pleased when we live to follow Him and make Him known so all can be saved through Christ Jesus. Jesus is the way, the truth and the life and no one gets to the Father but through Jesus.
Prayer –
Father,
Thank you for the truth in your word and teaching us to pray. Let the power of the Holy Spirit guide me to pray for repentance, restoration, reconciliation and healing in our land. Let me lift up our leaders so I can live a life as an Ambassador for Jesus.