The Priority of Prayer
READ 1 Timothy 2
Today’s devotion focuses upon verses 1-4. “I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men: 2For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. 3For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;”
Paul deals with two general topics in this chapter: (1) the matter of prayer, particularly in the church; and (2) the status of Christian women in the church.
2:1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men. As Paul begins his charge to Timothy (and by extension to all pastors), the first priority is prayer. “I exhort therefore”—his thought is, ‘I would urge you therefore.’ “First of all,” one of the first priorities in a pastor’s life must be prayer.
Paul utilizes four terms that are general synonyms for prayer, but each sets forth a specific nuance of prayer.
(1) Supplications are making request for needs.
(2) Prayers are a reference to direct communication with God, implying praise and worship.
(3) Intercessions are praying for or on behalf of others.
(4) Giving of thanks is evident. “For all men” continues the thought of intercession mentioned above.
Our prayer life ought to include making request for needs, direct fellowship with God, interceding for others, and of course, thanking God for his goodness.
2:2 Specifically, our prayer life ought to include our government and its leadership so that we might live a peaceful, civilized life in all godliness and respect.
Therefore, we should pray for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.Though we may not care for the person occupying an office of political leadership, nevertheless, we are enjoined to pray for them.
2:3 Thus, as we pray for our government, this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour.
Make sure that you have the kind of prayer life that reflects the instructions given by Paul to Timothy.
Your Friend and HIS,
Pastor Abbott
MEDITATIONS
1. How would you rate your prayer life? Consistent – Sporadic –Nonexistent
2. Is there something right now that you need? Does Paul instruct you to pray about this need? Does his instruction encourage you to pray for you need?
3. How are prayer and leading a quiet and peaceable life tied together?
4. How are we to pray for our governmental leaders?