In Paul’s first letter to Timothy, He urged. . .
“(1) First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, (2) for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. (3) This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, (4) who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” (1 Timothy 2:1-4 ESV)
Prayers! We need them and ought to appreciate those who continue keeping us in their prayers. And as Paul urged, it is what we are to engage in on behalf of all; even those in positions of authority and governance in this world. The leaders of our communities, counties, states, nation, and the world are to be a subject of our prayers as they make decisions impacting the manner of life lived by the citizenry. It is pleasing to God that we engage in such prayer for all people because — according to this passage — God’s desire is for all people to be saved and come to acknowledge the truth!
However, here is the challenge in which much of the world struggles. First of all, in the midst of agendas being pushed we find there are those who do not love the truth that can save (2 Thessalonians 2:10) but instead continue choosing to follow their own desires. Secondly, many do not realize there is something from which they need to be saved! They believe they are just fine the way they are!
If there is nothing from which we need to be saved, Jesus need not to have come into this earthly realm to suffer and die for us. However, we are all in need of being saved; saved from self and selfish aims that get in the way of God’s Will and from sin that separates us from Him! Jesus came to save (John 3:16-17; 12:47) and it is those who enter by Him that will be saved. (John 10:9; Acts 4:11-12) This is to be duly acknowledged in order to keep our focus turned toward Him Who is the Savior of the world. (John 4:42; 1 John 4:14) God has provided what is sufficient for salvation in Christ, but unless that personal need is humbly acknowledged, the life will not be drawn toward the One Who can provide the blessing.
My need, your need, and the world’s need is to humbly acknowledge there is something in need of being saved from — self and sin — and thus the need to humbly accept that truth and the truth leading to salvation and the life God desires us to live! May we continue acknowledging our need for Jesus and so be continually drawn to Him as we live in a manner proclaiming to the world the present and eternal difference He has made in our life and can make in theirs as well!
Have a great day PRAYING FOR GOD’S WILL TO BE DONE IN US AND OTHERS!
Carl
