Biblical Teachings on Prayer
1 Timothy 2:1-4
I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—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 people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.
Pondering Point
The Apostle Paul is encouraging his son-in-the-faith Timothy (and those being led by Timothy) to a habit of prayer. Let it be an encouragement toward your habit of prayer also. Imagine this brief conversation between you and God:
You: God my Father, how can I please You today?
God: Pray my child; this pleases Me.
That seems straightforward. But how should we pray and what should we pray about. Drawn from the 1 Timothy 2:1-4 reading above, you will find below brief definitions of Paul’s words to describe the God-pleasing activity of praying we’re urged into:
- Petition: A request appealing to an authority with respect to a particular cause.
- Prayer: A solemn request for help or expression of thanks addressed to God.
- Intercession: The act of intervening on behalf of another.
- Thanksgiving: Expressions of gratitude, especially to God.
Prayer Prompt
Read the conversation starter a few times. Based on the bible verses (“all people,” “those in authority”), who comes to mind for you? Write down the people (and their situations) that God brings to mind – and pray for them. This pleases our Lord.
Journal Prompt:
Write down the people (and their situations) that God brings to mind – and pray for them.
