21 Days of Hunger - Day 19
1 Timothy 2:1-4
As the world witnessed the inauguration of President Joe Biden, I couldn’t help but feel relieved when the event successfully ended in peace. As the evening concluded with fireworks and applause, it is amazing to note that two weeks prior to this, the Capitol was violently attacked. We recognize now, that the events of that day could have been much, much worse, hence the importance of prayer.
Paul, in his letter to his son in the faith, Timothy, wrote from the heart when he was encouraging this young pastor about the importance of prayer. In 1 Timothy 2:1-4, Paul writes, “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” (NIV). There are 4 things that Paul urges Timothy to do in this passage of scripture that pretty much sums up the power of prayer. He seriously encourages Timothy to:
1. Make petitions – bring a list of needs to God on behalf of the people. Be their representative before the Lord.
2. Pray – maintain healthy communication with the Lord for the sake of the people
3. Make intercession – speak on behalf of the people before the Lord. Utilize your influence and position with the Lord to gain favor for the people.
4. Give thanks to God – allow this work of prayer to flow from a place of thanksgiving.
In this passage of scripture, Paul reveals the powerful role that prayer plays in the life of the believer. As followers of Jesus Christ, we have the spiritual responsibility to pray and intercede...for everyone. Everyone! We are to pray for the great and for the small...for the significant and the insignificant. It is our Christ-like duty to pray. It is our divine purpose to intercede for our family, our friends, and...our enemies. We have been called to be the light of the world, and we know that light will do its best work in the darkness. I now understand, and appreciate the fact that salt brings joy to my heart when I add it to bland chicken. Let’s be the salt that God has called us to be, and let it start with our prayer life. Why? Because as Paul mentioned to Timothy, “This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.”
Pray...for everyone.
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