A Call To Prayer

This is a devotion from a couple years ago. I find it interesting how much has changed in America in the past few years and we need the prayers of all the Christians asking God to end the violence and division we are facing as a country.

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

Living in America can be similar to living in a bubble.  We see all the hurt and problems happening around us, but we are safe in this American bubble.

You might not even live in America, but don’t have the problems or war or poverty as many third world countries do.

This can also affect the church as we focus on praying just for ourselves here in America and the problems facing our fellow citizens.

From the perspective of the bubble, we have been seeing turmoil in the Middle East and parts of Africa, and we can’t forget that God doesn’t call us only to pray for those in our culture or nation, but for “all people” and those in “high positions”.

These prayers have a two fold purpose.  The first purpose is to bless those who are followers of Christ.  Our prayers for those outside of the bubble can change the minds of rulers and help our brothers and sisters in Christ live a “peaceful and quiet life” (who doesn’t want that?).

It also blesses those who are not yet followers of Christ.

Our prayers can be a powerful force in those who are far from God to “come to a knowledge of the truth”, that is Jesus Christ.

Make a commitment to pray for those outside of your bubble for a week.