Day 16, January 20, 2020
Prayer Focus: Our Leaders
1 Timothy 2:1-2 (NIV)
I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.
Why pray? Because prayer works!
Jesus taught about the need of having authority, however what He taught was that you cannot have authority unless you are under authority.
He says here to Timothy, “pray for all people.” It doesn’t matter who they are, pray for them. Pray for blessings to be in their life. Pray that you will be submissive to them. Pray favor for them. If they might be far from God, pray that God will bring people into their pathway that they might come to know Jesus. Speak favor and blessings to leaders, no matter who they are.
Today I suggest that we submit and pray for 4 areas:
Our parents, in the work place, civil authorities and for those in spiritual authorities.
No matter what you think about these people, pray for them. Maybe ask God to help you adjust your thinking and attitude; but for sure pray and speak blessing and favor to them.
Paul taught in Romans 13:1-2
Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2 Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.
Today we honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He found the right balance to stand against something peacefully and honorably.
In honor of him, here are just a few quotes (He has many quotable quotes):
“Love is the only force capable of transforming an enemy into friend.” – Martin Luther King Jr. “He who is devoid of the power to forgive is devoid of the power to love.”
“… What is needed is a realization that power without love is reckless and abusive, and love without power is sentimental and anemic. Power at its best is love implementing the demands of justice, and justice at its best is power correcting everything that stands against love.”
“Peace cannot be kept by force; it can only be achieved by understanding.” “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”
