While some are rejoicing today, at the Republican takeover of the House, others are lamenting. No matter which “side” you stand on, one thing is clear. As believers we have a mandate from God. We are to pray for those in authority.
I Timothy 2:1-3 says, “Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers,intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, 2for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet andpeaceable life in all godliness and reverence. 3For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior…”
Let’s pick this apart. If we are ever going to move forward, then we need to really understand what we are being taught here. Not only are we to pray for those in authority but we are to offer supplications, intercessions and giving of thanks. When is the last time you did that? Chances are if you have been unhappy with our current administration, you haven’t done so.
I have to be honest, that has never caught my eye before. All I ever recall from this Scripture verse is to pray for those in authority but here we see that we need to offer thanks. Yes, whether you agree or not.
So why do we do this? Why should we offer our prayers and our thanks to those in authority? We do it so that we may lead quiet and peaceable lives. It is a demonstration of our Christ-like character, displaying godliness and reverence.
I have seen a lot of irreverent behavior on behalf of many believers who disagree with those in authority. We may not agree but clearly, we can do so without taking away from our integrity.
No matter how you feel today about the results of the 2010 elections, it is our job to pray for those in authority. Stop complaining and start praying.
Be First to Comment