Monday, July 4, 2005
1 Timothy 2:1-4 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.
PRAY FOR ALL THOSE IN AUTHORITY
On this day of the red, white, and blue, citizens of our country celebrate all things American. Surely God has given blessing, properity, comfort, and many other undeserved gifts to the people of our land. For this we are thankful. Now as we listen to Sousa marches and light our barbeque grills at the local park, let us not forget also our continued prayers for the nation.
Paul urges prayer "for kings and all those in authority." Pray for those who hold the earthly rule over you whether they be federal, state, or local officials. It does not matter to which political party they belong. It does not matter if you do not agree with every decision they make. The Apostle simply reminds you to pray for them. Pray that they would have the wisdom to rule justly; that they would be filled with love for the people they serve; that they would be kept free from corruption, greed, and other vices.
Why do we offer such prayers? Because if good earthly rule is not maintained, it becomes much more difficult for us as Christians to share the good news of Jesus. (How much harder it would be to talk to your neighbor about the hope that is in you if you had to dodge bullets while you walked across the street!) If the government is able to keep the peace, then the message of Christ's death and the forgiveness of sins that comes by it can spread more freely to every creature. This, of course, pleases God who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.
God bless our native land!
