S – First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, ² for kings and all those who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity.

1 Timothy 2:1–2 CSB

O – Commentary:

With Nero’s growing resentment toward Christians—which came to full bloom after the fire in Rome in July, a.d. 64—and the general disintegration of the Roman Empire due to Nero’s profligacy, Christians began to suffer persecution from the Roman authorities. Having recently been released from his Roman imprisonment, Paul was greatly aware of the deteriorating political atmosphere. Thus he urged prayer for the salvation of all men, but especially rulers, so that the stable, noninterfering environment of previous days might be recovered. This is the minimum requirement if Christians are to live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.

 A. Duane Litfin, “1 Timothy,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 2 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 734.

A – With all that is going on in the world, praying for our leaders in all areas that affect our lives is a good idea.  Whether at work, government or business, praying for those who help shape our lives invited God into each area we interact with on a regular basis.  We shouldn’t just pray.  We should model our faith in a way that it also influences our areas of life.

R – Heavenly Father, we worship and surrender to you.  As we go into all the aspects of our lives, we pray for the leaders of those areas – leaders, bosses, pastors, coaches, teachers – anyone who brings influence to something we care deeply about.  We pray that they would know you in a personal relationship and would invite you Holy Spirit to help lead them.  And, we commit to living a life that exemplifies our love for you.  Thank you God for being with us today.