Devotional

1 Tim. 2:1-2 (NLT) I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. 2 Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity.

Herein lies an often-overlooked tenet of Christianity.

We’re the salt of the earth for the world: this includes being used as a preserving agent (Matt. 5:13). God uses the prayers of the righteous to prevent evil and complete anarchy from overtaking society. When we pray in alignment with the scriptures, we can have confidence that God hears us and if He hears us, breakthrough power is released! (1 John 5:14-15)

It’s certainly not an easy task when looking at acrimonious situations on the surface or from a place of pure emotion, but nonetheless, it’s heaven’s counsel to us through Paul.

While we don’t give thanks for murders, slander or gossip, police brutality, government overreach, unpredictable newspaper headlines or other negative, misguided behavior, we do give thanks for the people. They may not know God as Father, but He is indeed their Creator.

Giving thanks allows the love and compassion of God to move firstly in us and on humanity’s behalf. It clears the atmosphere of hostile feelings and thoughts. We rest in His assurance that He is the best caretaker for our lives. (1 Peter 5:7)

Even if you’re not contending with a conflict, the habit of thanksgiving breeds a grateful attitude, keeping the focus on God’s goodness instead of complaining.

Pray for the salvation and deliverance from spiritual blindness of unbelieving family members and friends. Take relational challenges with a spouse, child, or relative, financial pressure, health concerns, problems at work or difficulty at school to the throne of God. Use your spiritual authority to bind and loose demonic activity at the root, including in government and communities, releasing God’s love and supremacy in its place.

Fulfill your responsibility to humanity: pray and give thanks.

Meditation for the week: According to 1 Tim. 2:1-2, I have a Holy Spirit mandate to pray and give thanks for all mankind and those in authority. I can start where I am with my family, sphere of influence, and community. Praying scripturally, instead of bemoaning, quells anxiety, and ushers in the peace of God which surpasses my understanding, and guards my heart and mind through Christ Jesus.