In four days, we will be electing a president who will preside over America for the next four years. Our Republic is at stake and many will be joyous and many will be very disappointed in the results. Regardless of who is elected we are given a charge to pray. 1 Timothy 2:1-4 I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. Paul urges Timothy that of first importance in worship is prayer. Notice he uses four words referring to prayer. Requests, refers to coming to God with our needs. Of course, He knows our needs before we ask, but by coming to Him in prayer we acknowledge that He alone can solve them.
Prayers is the most general of the four and refers to the reverence and devotion we bring to God in prayer.
Intercession has to do with a person who “falls in with a person or comes near to speak on a familiar basis.” So we are to come, in this context, to pray according to the needs of our elected officials.
Thanksgiving, doesn’t really need much explaining except to remember everything we have is god’s gift to us and we should offer thanks as a child does to his parents.
If prayer is to be a high priority, what do we pray for? He tells us whom to pray for and not just for things. If we believe prayer is important and effective then we must pray for those in leadership from the president to local officials. This is all the more urgent when they are non-Christians and/or threaten our freedoms.
It doesn’t stop there for our prayers must include the sick, suffering, elderly, infants, missionaries and enemies alike.
Pr. Bob Snitzer
By the Way:
November 1, 9:00Sunday morning worship. Sermon: Success or Significance?
No Sunday school Nov. 1
Please continue praying for our nation and the upcoming election! Vote your values! Vote Godly principles.
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