In 1 Timothy 2, Paul is providing advice to a young Timothy who is struggling to reign in the people of Ephesus during worship times. We see that both men and women have become disruptive and choose to disobey God’s word. Paul touches on women in leadership and proper attire during worship services, but I would like to focus in on Paul’s instructions on prayer as it pertains to worship. Verse 1 “ I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercessions and thanksgiving be made for everyone”.
Paul is emphasizing the importance of prayer during a worship service.
“First of all” is indicative of the significance that he is placing on the role that prayer should play in a worship service and then Paul adds to it that all requests, prayers, intercessions (or petitions) and thanksgivings should be made for EVERYONE, yes, everyone.
Verses 2-4, “for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.”
Inside the current climate it is easy for us to only pray for those who share our like mindedness but that mentality goes against what God’s word says.
Paul encouraged Timothy and the people of Ephesus just as we should be encouraged today to pray for all people ranging from local to abroad, regardless of political affiliation, race, gender, etc…
I want to point to a couple of reasons why prayer should be our top priority not just during a worship service, but praying as a lifestyle.
First, God’s desire is for ALL MEN to come to be saved and to come to the knowledge of truth. How do we help accomplish that task? Through prayer. Second, it is pleasing to God when we pray as He has commanded us to.
I would encourage you to utilize prayer as a form of worship in your daily walk with the Lord.
Blessings!
VC Devotionals 