Our scripture this morning is 1 Timothy 2:1-6.
“I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity. This is good and pleases God our Savior, who wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth. For, There is one God and one Mediator who can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus. He gave his life to purchase freedom for everyone. This is the message God gave to the world at just the right time.”
Paul tells Timothy (and us) to pray for all people (v. 1). We are called to lift up our brothers and sisters in positions of authority so we may “live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity” (v. 2). Likewise, we must remember those in need and even those we do not know. God wants us to focus on the good of all His children.
Praying for each other doesn’t reveal anything to God, He is already aware of everything. However, prayer can help us be connected to God and each other. This is why Jesus taught us to pray regularly and seek God’s encouragement in our lives.
While the Lord gave us a template for prayer (Luke 11:1-13), He wants us to be open and honest in our personal prayers. He warned against praying just for show (Luke 18:9-14), that we must be sincere in our prayers. Think about how and when you pray, and look for a deeper relationship with God and others.
Gracious God, we know that You hear our prayers and that being in touch with You is important. Help us to be aware of the needs of the world and to pray for everyone. Amen.