I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone— 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. (1 Timothy 2:1–4, NIV 1984).
My Musings – “Requests, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving…for kings and those in authority.” History, including recent history, has shown us that this is not always easy. The “best of times,” for sure. The “worst of times,” not so much. But we must remember that “the authorities that exist have been established by God.” (Romans 13:1, NIV 1984). That sometimes leaves us scratching our heads wondering what God is up to?
We can complain about them and question God’s purposes, but doing so might leave us open to God’s rebuke. “Who is this that darkens my counsel with words without knowledge?” (Job 38:2, NIV 1984). For God has not taken into His counsel, nor does He need it. Our knowledge would add nothing.
My Advice – It is, after all, the worst of kings, and the worst of those in authority that need our prayers and intercession the most. It is unlikely that they would request it themselves. And no matter what, we can give thanksgiving that God is Sovereign, Holy and just. We can rest assured that, His motive is for “all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.” Sometimes, it takes the “worst of times” to bring people to the foot of the cross.
So, “first of all” let’s follow God’s urgings.
The Brew Is A Musing 