Introductory Thoughts
We know that believers should pray for others, but should we limit our scope of prayers? The apostle Paul admonished the believers of Thessalonica to pray for him but also wanted those who served the Lord by his side included (1 Thessalonians 5:25). He admonished the believers in Ephesus to pray for all saints (Ephesians 6:18). Then, he instructed Timothy, the young preacher, to pray “For kings, and for all that are in authority” (1 Timothy 2:2). In verse one of the same chapter (1 Timothy 2:1), Paul gave Timothy a much broader scope when he said “that . . . supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks” should “be made for all men.” If believers fail to pray for others, who will take up the slack to pray for those in need?
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): Its easy to pray for those whom we love, but the Bible tells us to pray for those who may not like us or who do not love God. Paul prayed that Gods enemies would be saved (Romans 10:1). David prayed for his enemies who were sick (Psalm 35:13). Stephen prayed for those who were stoning him (Acts 7:60).
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(For everyone): Why should we pray for the saved who are serving the Lord? Why should we pray for other believers, even if they are not serving the Lord?
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Why should we pray for a government that is opposed to the things of God? Why should we pray for the lost who despise our Saviour?
Prayer Thoughts
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Ask God to work in the hearts of those who serve in government.
- Ask the Lord to give you a heart to pray for others in need.
Song
I AM PRAYING FOR YOU
