Making Ourselves Go
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 2:1-2
We all want to go. We all want to do. We all want to be in that number until… it gets right down
to going and actually doing. Suddenly, our schedules are packed, our kids are sick, our car is in
the shop, and the list grows by the second. Why? Is it because we are not comfortable sharing
our faith? Talking with strangers? Afraid someone will ask a question we don’t know how
to answer? All of the above?
Why do we want to hide? Our scripture tells us to pray for others. Here’s what Paul was saying
to the church. He had just written of the wonderful grace of God exhibited in Christ who “came
into the world to save sinners” (1:15), followed by remembrance of two men who had professed
Christ (1:20), and yet whose faith became “shipwrecked.” It must have reminded him of the
many people who still had not heard of Christ, and also of the dangers inherent in the life of
faith. He told Timothy that the first order of the church is to pray for all people: that requests,
prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone—for kings and all those in
authority.
We need not make too much of the various words which Paul used: requests (entreaties), prayers
(reverent, worshipful conversation), intercession (confident, familiar talk rather than the popular
notion of speaking on behalf of another), and thanksgiving (often linked with holiness and
therefore proper every time we bow before God). Paul labored the point in order to spread before
us the comprehensive nature of prayer and also to underscore this serious command.
In our public worship, prayer should be our first order of concern and participation. Prayer is not
to be a filler between hymns or a routine before the sermon. Paul wrote to the Philippians, “In
everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Phil. 4:6).
He urged the Colossians and us, “Devote yourselves to prayer” (Col. 4:2). Prayer is a uniting
with God. It is to be entered into with awe and joy, with respect and a sense of responsibility. We
are engaged in the worldwide mission of glorifying God, especially as demonstrated through the
spread of the gospel as people come to salvation
Today is the Sabbath. May we observe the rest He intended for us on this day. May we unite
with Him in prayer as we look for divine opportunities to share His love, His mercy, and His
grace. He who promised is faithful (Hebrews 10:23).
Until We Meet Again
1.Be faithful in prayer for all God’s people.
2.Be faithful to share your heart and your faith when you recognize divine appointments.
3.During these days of confusion, be quick to listen, slow to speak and walk humbly before your God.
