Devotions: Our First Command

First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity.

1 Timothy 2:1-2 New American Standard Bible (NASB)

Prayer is important. In other letters Paul says we should pray without ceasing. This chapter is one of instruction on conduct. The first and most important is to pray, mainly for salvation for others, and for those taking the gospel to them. It should be the desire of every Christian for all others to find what we have found, because that is the desire of God. He does not desire for any to perish and neither should we. We should also pray for those in authority, that they would lead godly lives and listen to godly counsel for the good of the country and ourselves. God has allowed these people to have authority, but we should not sit idly by. We have a responsibility to pray for them. It is up to us to hold them up in prayer. Regardless of what power we have over the forces at work, we are commanded to pray for this. It is also important to note that Paul says to pray not only with entreaties and petitions, but also with thanksgiving. Regardless of the status of our country, we need to give thanks to God for what we have and where we are. It could always be worse. The first work prayer does is in our hearts, especially when it comes to prayers of thanksgiving. It completely changes our attitudes and outlook. Prayer is the most important act Christians can do, and it is one of the few that all can and should do. It should be our first resort. How is your prayer life? How can you improve it? Ask God to help you set up and keep to a plan for daily prayer.

To view a video of this devo, visit my facebook page at www.facebook.com/evelynbray15

Like my page or subscribe to my blog to receive these devotions daily!