Pray For Them

One of the questions I keep asking myself is, “will this produce life”? I wish that I would ask that before commenting on social media. I wish I would ask that before I say a lot of things. If I am honest, I wish this culture would ask that question as well. I wish Christians would ask that question before they speak. However, first things first. My mouth must submit to life for the good of everyone, including myself.

“First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.”

1 Timothy 2:1-4 ESV

What if we did that? What if we prayed, supplicated, and interceded for people? Especially those people in leadership of any kind. It could be a politician or business leader, your boss, or the college dean. What would it be like if we concerned ourselves with speaking life into their life for the purpose of them knowing Jesus personally? If they are saved, then pray for wisdom, strength, love, compassion, and the things that would bless them, bless yourself, and bless everyone that they are leading? What if we stopped criticizing people and prayed for them? I am not saying we can’t disagree. This passage is not saying that we can’t hold a contrary opinion than our leaders. It is not saying that we should not espouse that opinion. It says to pray for them. More than that, it says that when we pray for them, it is good and it is pleasing to God. It puts a smile on His face. Things that bring life to people put a smile on God’s face. Judging, dividing, criticizing and publically bashing leaders helps nobody. What if we posted prayers, earnest and honest prayers for leaders so others could agree? It may be met with sharp rebuke by many. But God would be on our side. He told us to do it. In fact, He told us that He loves to hear us do it.