Practical Prayer Practices – Tip 6

1 Timothy 2:1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; 2 For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.

I believe that most people grasp the need for prayer. What prayer is, whom they should pray for, and how they should pray is often a doorstop for those same people. Let’s not overcomplicate things. Prayer is conversation with God. The thing about conversation is that it is not one way. That means that a part of prayer should include listening for His voice.

This is not some kind of lay on the floor, weird out, and wait for some strange science fiction sounding tremoring voice. Most often it comes through a scripture that comes to mind as you seek Him. Yes, it is that simple!

Let’s take into consideration the above verse. It tells us who to pray for and the kinds of prayers to make. Imagine that! God says to give thanks for men/people. Think of it this way:

“I thank you God, for bringing ‘so and so’ into my life” See? Simple!

Now, who doesn’t want to live a peaceable life? I sure do. Well then, pray for kings and all in authority. Who exactly are those ‘in authority’? I’m going to rock the boat some here. Government officials are workers for the people. At least that is what they are supposed to do. They are not the ‘leaders’ of the country. They are people elected to do a job.

Think about all of the weight that is placed upon them that they are not able, called or prepared to do and it becomes easier to see why they have trouble fulfilling the assignment. How angry do people get when they do not lead? There are few elected officials that actually have the task/assignment of leading. But, primarily has been placed on their shoulders by the expectations of the people. Sound familiar?

It is exactly how King Saul got his position. The people wanted someone to hear God for them and to tell them what to do. So, they chose Saul. Today, we have elected officials that many expect to lead in godly paths that they are just completely unaware of. Wow, they NEED our prayers!

Those who truly have authority are those whom God has chosen. Do we pray for God’s leaders as much as the Prime Minister? We should! Even more so. God’s authority goes way beyond man’s. We need to pray that God’s chosen leaders have boldness to carry out His plans without compromise.

Pray, that they will not be bored or distracted by the things of this world. That His leaders will be people of prayer and that they will have time to seek His face for decisions that need to be made. Pray for them to be strong and courageous, fulfilling all that is assigned to them, and pray for them to be prepared for whatever comes their way.

And…NEVER forget to pray for the families of leaders!

When God’s leaders are prayed for, we will see change.