Why Pray for Leaders?
First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, for kings and all who are in high positions . . . (1 Timothy 2:1-2)
The apostle Paul assigns a high priority to praying for our leaders: "First of all, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions and thanksgivings be made for everyone, for kings and all who are in high positions . . ." He is saying that nothing is more important for our common life than praying for those who govern us.
Why is such intercession so vital? The apostle continues: "So that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and dignity." Paul believes that our united prayers for those in power can help to shape the quality of life in a nation. It can lead to civic order, reverence, and good character.
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What a call to pray when these priceless realities are not present among us, or in the wider world! The greatest resource of any commonwealth is a body of faithful intercessors. And isn't that the best hope for a world torn by strife and evil?
Paul is telling his young friend: "Timothy, call your people to sustained intercession as their highest work - and see that you lead the way!"
Prayer: Lord, let our life as a nation be transformed by persistent, believing prayer!
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