Day 165/260: Read 1 Timothy 2

Are you ever amazed by the restraint of the inspired writers when they speak of government? Christians were heavily persecuted in the first century, many even dying for the faith. Yet inspiration teaches that Christians should respect those in positions of authority and even submit to them, as long as they are not demanding disobedience to God.

Paul urged Timothy to pray for all men, including “kings and all who are in authority.” Rome’s opposition to Christianity was no secret; Caesar was not a friend of first century disciples. Despite the animosity, the apostle said that “supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for all kings and all who are in authority.” When is the last time you prayed for a politician that you did not like?

As followers of Jesus, we are to be peaceful and submissive to those that do not interfere with our religion, and pray for those who do oppose us. Pray “that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.” Does your social media usage show quietness, peace, godliness, and reverence?

Let’s pray the way God wants us to pray, and live the way God wants us to live, looking toward our eternal citizenship and striving to bring our neighbors “to the knowledge of the truth.”

Memory (Recite to a friend without looking)

1 Timothy 1:15. This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief.

Pray

Pray for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.