First pray… 

David Niednagel, studying in Timothy.  David is a Pastor/Teacher, Evansville, IN.  David uses the S.O.A.P. method for his morning devotional time (study, observe, apply, pray). 

1 Timothy 2:1 

2:1   First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, 2 for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. 3 This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. ESV 

After warning in the previous verses about some not dealing with sin and turning away from the Lord, Paul urges first of all to pray for people – and probably pray what he just wrote in the verses above, that they would cling to their faith in the Lord Jesus, no matter how bad things got, and they would keep a clear conscience by confessing and repenting of sin. That is certainly a good way to pray for all believers. If we keep our eyes on Christ, we will sin much less, and if we are committed to confession and repentance, the sins we do commit will have much less effect. 

When he calls for “supplication, prayers, intercessions” he means all kinds of prayers all the time. There is always some appropriate prayer for the Holy Spirit to protect the hearts of God’s people. Paul adds that when we make requests, we should also express thanks for God’s wisdom to know how to answer, and His power to accomplish what no one else can. Even desperate prayers should include thanks to God, recognizing His perfect wisdom and capability. But Paul makes it clear that these prayers are not only for believers, but for all people, including people who were like he had been, belligerent and arrogant. God wants us to pray for hard hearts, including Kings, and people in authority. Then and now, the people with the most power depend on their own power and use it to get their way. But God can break and humble them, so pray for that.  

The specific prayer Paul mentions is for Kings and people in positions of power to protect and promote stability and peace in the realm. Pray they will not be corrupt and weaken the nation for their own advantage. Public peace is so important for the stability of its people. 

Lord, I asked you to work in the hearts of Barak Obama and Donald Trump, but I did not see the evidence in either case that I was hoping for. But I will continue to ask You to work in President Biden, because You want this for all rulers. I pray for genuine faith, and freedom from the fear of men, so he will have a good conscience without hidden sin. May he care for the oppressed, and shun bribes and corruption. I pray he will set a good example for our country, and for the world. Thank You that this is Your will and You will honor Your name through our leaders. Thank You for every day we have peace and stability. I pray You would work against the plans of evil people, and that the gospel would spread because of the lives, the words and the prayers of Your people. Amen