DAILY BIBLE

Devotional

Pray this way for kings and all others who are in authority, so that we can live in peace and quietness, in godliness and dignity. 
—1 Timothy 2:2

Prayer is the foundation of a godly society. Paul admonished us to offer prayers for kings and all those in authority. When we pray for our rulers, they become softened to the purposes of God, respectful to the Church, and honest and just in their lawmaking. 

A peaceful and quiet society is the best environment in which the lost may be saved. When Satan is influencing government, wicked laws are passed, anarchy rules, and the Church is persecuted. Preaching the Word, printing Bibles, and establishing churches are forbidden in that environment.  

God our Savior “wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth” (1 Timothy 2: 4). He sent His Son as a ransom for all men and women (v. 6), and thus He desires nations to be open to the preaching of the Gospel. Whenever we come together with other believers, we should pray specifically for each nation and ruler “with holy hands lifted up to God, free from anger and controversy” (v. 8). 

A praying church, an open government, a perfect sacrifice, and an obedient preacher will bring the Gospel to the ends of the earth and usher in Jesus’ return to reap the harvest!