October 6, 2022

1 Timothy 2:1-8 (HCSB)
Instructions on Prayer
First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, 2 for kings and all those who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. 3 This is good, and it pleases God our Savior, 4 who wants everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God and one mediator between God and humanity, Christ Jesus, Himself human, 6 who gave Himself—a ransom for all, a testimony at the proper time. 7 For this I was appointed a herald, an apostle (I am telling the truth; I am not lying), and a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth. Instructions to Men and Women 8 Therefore, I want the men in every place to pray, lifting up holy hands without anger or argument.

Casey Morton
Prayer is an incredibly powerful tool that allows us to communicate personally with God!! Paul says our supplications (simply asking God for something), prayers (all communication with God), intercessions (praying to God on behalf of someone else), and giving thanks (giving thanks), should be made for ALL men. This means that all men (and women) need prayer. No one is exempt. Regardless of your feelings, there is no one you can’t pray for.

It might be easy for you to pray for your children, loved ones, church family, etc., but this verse implies we should pray for everyone, including enemies. Ouch.

The goal is that all will be saved. Some say, “God is God. If he wanted everyone saved, couldn’t He do it?” The answer is yes. But God wants genuine desire from man to be saved. He will not convert the world at the expense of just having puppets on a string. So, think of a lost person you know today, and lift them up and pray for their salvation!!