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Links In A Chain


I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone— 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. (I Timothy 2:1) 

          For the past eight years, were you praying for Mr. Obama? Were you thankful for him? Was your prayer that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness? Have you started praying regularly for Mr. Trump? Are you thankful for him? Is your prayer that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness?
          I'm not so good at intercession. Two years ago after I came to Florida, I began to pray a blessing on each residence in the park. It expanded to include government officials, including Mr. Obama, and from there to family, church family, neighbors and friends and enemies. When I go back north, I can't seem to build the same habit, so I can't claim to be consistent about it. I keep it simple, I use the Fruit of the Spirit for my blessing so whatever is next in the list, that's the prayer for that day. This year, I added "and wisdom." 
          Paul urged first of all. In other words, this is a very important prayer. I would say it's as important as praying for  your family members. People in government have the ability to make life harder or easier for us. If we are praying for them, honestly praying for them, we are also praying for ourselves because we benefit from their blessing. Here's the thing. 
           The other point that Paul makes that I believe should be noted is that there are three things that are links in a chain: praying for those in authority, peaceful and quiet lives, and godliness and holiness. Failing in one is likely to result in failing in the other two. As I begin to think about my theme for my life for the next six months, one word that comes to mind is strong. I believe I need to be stronger about each of these things - praying, living a peaceful and quiet life and being godly and holy.
      Another word that comes to mind is based on my amusement with Roman numerals. I'm going to be LV this year. Scripture says that we are to love our enemies and pray for those who mistreat us. It weaves in with praying for those who are in authority and living peaceful and quiet lives, and with godliness and holiness.  
         Here's the challenge for you and me. If we aren't praying for them, we're hating them. It's a one-to-one correspondence. If we aren't praying for them, we have no right to complain about our lives being less than peaceful and quiet, and we cannot claim to be godly or holy.

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