BY: Pastor Bob Miller
CHAPTER READ: 1 Timothy 2
SCRIPTURE SELECTED: 1 Timothy 2:1-4
I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for all people— 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. 3 This is good and pleases God our Savior, 4 who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.
OBSERVATION:
The very first thing Paul urges us to do is to pray for others! We are to petition, pray, intercede, and give thanks for all people! He especially mentions that we are to pray for those who have been given power and authority, that they would rule in such a manner that we can live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. God wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth and their salvation begins with our prayers for them.
APPLICATION:
Paul says to begin with Prayer! “First of all” – before anything else make petitions, prayer, intercession, and thanksgiving for all people! How often do I forget this step? I concentrate on “action” and the “going forth”. But without first praying, I’m simply going out in my own power and by-passing God’s direction. Before we do anything…we start with praying for others! How often, do my prayers center on what I want God to do for me. First of all, I’m to pray for all people that God’s purpose is fulfilled, which is the salvation of all people! That is God’s priority, I need it to become my own priority!
PRAYER:
Lord, I come to You today and I lift up to You those whom You have placed in authority over us and who have been given the power to rule and set the direction for our lives. I pray for our President, our judges, our Congressmen! I pray for our mayors, and police officers. I thank you for these that serve and pray that you will bless their lives, and that they will live in such a manner to bless others. May You Lord use me to bless those I speak with today! Through my life may, another person be drawn to know You! Amen!