Daily Scripture
“First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all, which is the testimony given at the proper time. For this I was appointed a preacher and an apostle (I am telling the truth, I am not lying), a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.”
1 Timothy 2:1-7
daily Devotion
We should never underestimate the power of prayer. God allows us the privilege of communicating with Him directly - anytime. Jesus commands us to pray. For everyone - “all people”, to “intercede on their behalf,” just as He intercedes with God on our behalf. As Christians, we want to please God. Paul says in verses 3-4 “This is good and pleases God our Savior, who wants everyone to be saved…” God wants everyone to be saved, so we should pray for everyone, without distinction. “…and to understand the truth.” If we study God’s word and ask God to reveal the truth, we will not easily be fooled by smooth talk and glowing words. But we shouldn't pray for others just because we are commanded to, but like Jesus’ example, with love and compassion, and showing grace to each other.
The Bible tells us many times to pray for our leaders. When these leaders are in God’s will, it is easier to “live peaceful and quiet lives by godliness and dignity.” Leadership can be a very tiring responsibility. James 3:1 says, “Not many of you should become teachers in the church, for we who teach will be judged more strictly.” Our leaders - national, local, & our church - are in need of prayer.
I like this quote by Doug Van Meter, “The church that prays together learns together, is prepared together, grows together, and stays together.” When we pray together as a church, it multiplies the power and strengthens our unity. James 5:16 says to “Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” Our most powerful resource is our communication with God through prayer, together.
Sharon Brown