Wednesday, June 5th, 2019

An important news story broke yesterday that largely went unnoticed – the fact that President Trump attended church in Northern Virginia, the pastor prayed for him, and some in the congregation were angry and hurt by that. Reacting with anger or hurt to prayer – no matter whom it may be for – is contrary to what we are called to believe as Christians. We, as followers of Jesus, are called to forgive and pray for not just our friends and those we support but, more importantly, our enemies and those we disagree with. We do not draw close to the heart of Jesus until we lift up those we disagree with in fervent prayer. Some may love this President while some may not, and that sure to be true for the next President and the next after that; but if we only reserve our hopeful and fervent prayers for those we love, what kind of ambassador for Jesus are we in the world? Paul wrote in 1 Timothy specifically to address the fact that we should be praying for our leaders – no matter whom they may be. He said, “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.” Today, if you have never prayed for someone you do not like, do so today and allow Jesus to work in your heart as a result.

“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.” – 1 Timothy 2:1-4 NIV