You and I have a responsibility to pray for “all those in authority.”

This word from 1 Timothy 2:1-4 follows Paul’s previous message to the church at Rome to submit to authority as ordained of God (Romans 13).

Paul exhorted Timothy and others to make “requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving” for everyone–“for kings and all those in authority. . .” (1 Timothy 2:1-2).

Paul made this an urgent request. Why should you make praying for leaders a priority?

First, leaders set the tone for the country as a whole. Our leaders have a huge influence in all things–social as well as legislative. We should pray they will lead the country in Godliness or at least with sense of understanding the country is depending on them.

Second, leaders get a lot of conflicting requests. They need the ability to see the long-term good of the nation. Please pray they would seek God and seek good.

Third, leaders make decisions which determine the direction of the country. They will either promote religious freedom or restrict it. They will either allow the Word of God to be freely expounded or make preaching and witnessing difficult. We truly need to pray for our leaders in order for us to “live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness” (1 Timothy 2: 2). This obviously affects the opportunity for people to know the truth since Paul said “This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth” (1 Timothy 2:3-4).

Finally, we should pray for leaders because obedience to God matters in all things. God delights in the obedience of His people. He will bless us as we faithfully obey His Word.

If you would like to receive my daily posts, you can subscribe to waylonbailey.com at the top of the page. Simply type in your email address, and click subscribe. It’s free and easy. When you receive a return email, confirm your desire to subscribe by clicking on the link.

Waylonbailey.com is my ministry across the Internet. I would appreciate your subscribing and also forwarding this and other posts to your friends. Thank you!