1 Timothy 2:1

“I urge then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people – for kings and 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.”

In this section of Scripture, Paul gives essential teaching concerning Christian life. He gives us four types of prayer life: 1) petitions – pleading with the Lord for something specific, 2) prayers – may refer to general prayers, 3) intercession – where we employ prayer to mediate on behalf of others, 4) thanksgiving – Always giving thanks to the Lord for all things. Even though God is all seeing and knowing he has chosen us so that we may be involved in prayer with how He is transforming the world. This is a reality even if we do not understand the mystery of it all. Our first duty should be to pray for those in authority. Praying for leaders to govern equitably and justly and that they place their trust in God. Its so easy to get caught up in the drama and happenings in the world, taking sides, being angered by the politics of it all. We, however, have an assignment to pray, this does not mean we put our heads in the sand, but we need to not let it politics or events to take our eyes off Jesus. Are your eyes on Jesus?

Dear God, thank you for your Word which reminds us how to pray and who to pray for. Please give me wisdom as to what to pray for, whether it’s to intercede, petition and thanksgiving. You are the only God, and you are in control. I pray for our leaders, Lord that your Spirit would open their eyes to your wisdom and guidance. Thank you for your many blessings and help me to see the world around me to love others as myself and to pass your love on to others. I ask this in your name. Amen.