Prayers of Supplication

“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 quiet lives in all goodness

and holiness. This is good and pleases God our Savior,”

1 Tim 2:1-3 (NIV)

            “Prayers” Paul impresses upon Timothy and later readers to we are to request God’s help for others, to stand before God on the behalf of everyone. Just what does Paul mean here?

            “ . . .for everyone” We, as believers in Christ, are to pray for those in our family, in our neighborhood, people we hear of, and even people with whom we may have issues, as well as those who have issues with us. This is a tall order. Also, we are to pray for our national leaders. Sometimes, this is easy for us to do; other times, it is difficult. However, if we strive to follow Paul’s guidance we experience a wonderful reward.

            “. . . peaceful quiet lives. . .” We recently had some work done to the outside of our home. First job went like clockwork, roof reshingled in less than a day. On the second job, the contractor ran into a snag. It caused a delay in the completion of the work. We didn’t know what the problem was until late in the afternoon. The man and his wife returned to tell us the situation and that the supply he searched for had to be special ordered. The job couldn’t be done for three to five days.

Not knowing what the holdup was caused Hubby to be in a bad mood which in turn caused me to be defensive. When we at lunch, I felt the need to pray for our contractor. It was about forty five minutes later that the gentleman and his wife drove in and shared with us the data about the supply hold-up. I found myself relaxed and calm on the inside. I could enjoy the light breeze coming in the open window and through the front door. 

            “. . . in all goodness and holiness.” When we are in tune with God through prayer, we feel His presence. We know we can go to Him with whatever need we have or are aware of. Our desire is to please Him in whatever we do.