The Encourager
“Pray for Those "in Authority" - Jeff Curtis”
Pray for Those “in Authority”
By Jeff Curtis
1Timothy 2:1-2 is a key verse regarding a Christian’s attitude toward civil government. Paul writes; “Therefore I exhort first of all those supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, 2 for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.” We should keep in mind that, the reigning emperor was Nero, whose vanity, cruelty and hostility to the Christian faith were widely known. Even so, Paul said to pray for him. Someone has said, “If you cannot respect the person, at least respect the position.”
Wherever we live, we should pray for whoever is serving as the head of authority. We should pray for his/her health. We should pray for him / her to have clearness of mind and make good decisions. We should pray that he / she will be more concerned about the country than their political ambitions. If they are a good leader, we can thank God for that. If they are less than they should be, we can pray that they will improve. Above all, we should pray for their salvation.
Paul also said in verse 2 that we should pray, “that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.” Why is it important that we “lead a quiet and peaceable life?” Some may say that’s a strange question. Surely everyone wants a quiet and peaceable life. Paul likely had in mind a more serious purpose than just giving us the opportunity to enjoy life. The verses immediately following focus on God’s desire that all be saved (1Timothy 2:3-4). When the world is at peace, the church can meet without fear of persecution. When the world is at peace, we can talk freely to our neighbors and friends about the Lord. When the world is at peace, we can boldly preach the gospel and spread the news about Jesus Christ. Yes, we should pray for a “quiet and peaceable life,” not only for ourselves but also for our world.
Meditate on this:
For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.
