“First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.” (vv.1-2)
Here in chapter 2 Paul encourages Timothy to be a man of prayer by praying for “all men”, sinners and saints alike. Especially, as noted in our text, “those who are in position of authority.”
I don’t know how you feel about the people in authority over you, but if you’re like most, praying for them may not be your first impulse. Yet according to our text, we are to include them in our prayers on a regular basis. While we may not have “kings” who rule over us, each of us could name someone who qualifies as, “those in authority” over our lives (i.e. government officials, work supervisors, parents, teachers, etc)
And as difficult as it is to see so much corruption, dishonesty, finger pointing, fake news, and individual agendas promoted over the greater good by some in leadership, we would all do well to remember that God is the ultimate ruler, and our hope is not in earthly “kings” but in the King of kings, who alone has power and authority over even the most powerful rulers.
Therefore, pray for all men, and all who are in authority, for they truly need it!
The Truth: "Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.” (Romans 13:1)
