1 Timothy 2 - 4.7.26

SCRIPTURE: 1 Timothy 2:1-6

I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all people. This has now been witnessed to at the proper time. 

OBSERVATION

The Apostle Paul is giving instructions to the young Timothy who was discipled by him who became the pastor and bishop of the Church in Ephesus. A couple of the church’s objectives were to live peaceful and quiet lives and to appreciate and pray for all people especially those in authority which would be pleasing to God.  As mentioned in Daniel 2:21, it is God who appoints and deposes kings and places who He pleases in positions of authority.  Paul also points to the fact that God wants everyone to come to knowledge of knowing Him and the salvation that is freely offered to all mankind. 

APPLICATION

These same instructions are for the Church today which is to live peaceful and quiet lives and to be law abiding citizens, by setting good examples for others to follow which would glorify God. We as Believers also need to pray for those in authority, whether it be those in the government, our bosses, and our elders, whether we agree or disagree with their beliefs. We are to pray for their salvation and their wisdom to be used by God. Lastly, we should constantly pray for everyone that they may witness the glory of God working in their lives and for them to come to the knowledge of truth. James 5:16 says that the prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.

PRAYER

Lord Jesus, I thank you for the assurance that our prayers are powerful and effective because we serve You, God Almighty! Lord, I thank You for life and every individual that You have placed in my life. I pray that You let those who don’t know You have an experience with You and call out to You alone for salvation. I pray for our world leaders and those in authority in our nation. I pray that You give them wisdom and place Your hand on them to fulfill Your will. Lastly, I thank you Jesus for being the mediator between the Father and us and bridging the gap to have communion with You, Amen.

- Darrence Hamilton