First of All, Pray...

"I urge, then first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone - 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 men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth." 1 Timothy 2: 1-4 (NIV)

Paul instructs Timothy to continually pray for all people, specifically for rulers and all those in positions of authority; so that they might live tranquil and quiet lives in godliness and dignity. When Paul wrote this letter, the Roman emperor, Nero, was in power. Nero, a pagan ruler, murdered his own mother and persecuted Christians.

God's Word tells us, "The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD, like the rivers of water; He turns it wherever He wishes" Proverbs 21:1. It is God who "removes kings and establishes kings" Daniel 2:21.

We desire our grandchildren live in reverence to God in a peaceful and prosperous nation. As we submit to God in obedience, and pray faithfully for leaders and others, we can trust God to fulfill His promises to bless our land.

Pray for political leaders at all levels, spiritual leaders, and descendants:

*Give thanks for talent, skill, and knowledge given to our leaders (Exodus 31: 1-11)

*Direct hearts of leaders to govern rightly and justly (Proverbs 21:1 ; Jer. 22:3)

*Raise up new leaders who will govern diligently (Romans 12:8)

*Peace and prosperity (Jer. 29:7)

*Bless with wisdom and understanding (Proverbs 3:13-18)

*Good stewardship with resources (Matt. 25:14-30)

*Repentance and salvation (2 Chron. 7:14; 1 Tim. 2:4)

Lori

This month, I am memorizing the first two verses of 1 Timothy chapter 2.