First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, for kings and all who are in high positions, so that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and dignity.” vss. 1-2
1 Timothy 2:1-2
First century Christians lived in a different world from ours. There weren’t many of them, and they continually lived in fear of the despotic Roman rulers and the military legions scattered throughout the Empire. At times they risked their lives just to be able to worship. Often, they were thrown into prison. They longed for peace and quiet and their leaders urged them to pray for their secular rulers, including the governors and the emperor. Our situation is very different. Our leaders are elected and we have a voice in choosing them. We do not face persecution from the government no matter what some loud voices in the social media might claim. While our system is not perfect and always in need of reform, it does provide for remarkable freedom and stability. It’s amazing then how uncivil, nasty, and mean we can be in speaking of our leaders–and it’s getting worse. Some have been threatened and maligned beyond imagination. What’s worse, some Christians have been joining in! We are called to a higher standard! If the Christians of Rome could pray for Nero, we can offer prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving for all who hold office. Even if we didn’t vote for them, we can certainly pray for them–and mean it!
Thought for the Day: How sincere are my prayers for elected leaders?
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