Obedient Prayers

 

“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.”

—1 Timothy 2:1

As I’ve suggested in previous blog posts, I really don’t like being told what to do by individuals in authority over me whom I consider incompetent, or driven by ill intent. I don’t trust such people. I disagree with many of the decisions they make and many of the policies they create.

In spite of my strong feelings, I have come to understand that sometimes our loving heavenly Father asks us to do something that challenges our selfish attitudes and beliefs. We know it’s right because the request comes from Him. However, in our selfishness we want to cling to our “we know better” attitude, instead of obediently following God’s request of us.

Such an instruction comes to us from the Apostle Paul writing to his son in the faith, as recorded in 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.

Even though I may disagree with the decisions and policies of those in authority over me, I must bend my selfish will to God’s perfect will and obediently do what He asks of me through the pen of the Apostle Paul. I must pray for those in authority over me. In so doing, I will show my obedience to the God who loves me with His everlasting love.

I invite you to join me. Let us begin this day by obediently praying for those in authority, especially for those with whom we disagree. Doing so will most certainly please the God who loves us.

 

Based on a blog originally posted on Tuesday, September 8, 20155

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