We Pray Because....

1 Timothy 2:2-4 - We Pray Because....

It’s the right thing to do – prayer that is. We should, as Christians, be continuously making intercession for all men and especially for our leaders. Paul even told us in v. 3 that it is good and acceptable in the eyes of the Father and the Son. But there are even “better” reasons than just saying that it is the right thing to do.

Paul told us to do it so that we can live quiet, peaceful lives characterized by godliness and reverence. I see these as the internal and external dynamics/results of a powerful prayer life. Prayer gives us peace. Quite honestly, prayer moves our hearts into the hands of God so that we know that everything will be taken care of. Prayer really does change the one who prays. And as God answers our prayers, He gives to us the assurance that no matter what happens, we are in His hands.

Don’t misunderstand. Paul was not indicating that Christians who pray would be without conflict in their lives. In those days (and in ours), that is an impossibility, but we can choose, by God’s power, to respond in a quiet and peaceful way. For most of us, that requires a heart change. What Paul is telling us is that within the church, we must do away with strife and discord so that the world will see unity – standing together – in the midst of the storm.

Paul went on. He mentioned godliness and reverence. Again, this is the inner transformation that takes place because of prayer. The words Paul used are hard to translate into English. “Godliness” in this instance means “to live knowing realistically what is required in life with respect to God.” It’s about a proper relationship – a life lived in total submission and respect for our Heavenly Father. It’s also about respecting ourselves and each other. “Reverence” seems to indicate a graceful dignity. So you see, all of these characteristics refer to a lifestyle that would appeal to those who are hostile to the gospel. The truth is that you catch way more flies with a teaspoon of honey than you can with a gallon of vinegar. And that is always our goal – to bring lost people into the Kingdom. It’s why we worship, pray, study the Bible, minister, give our money, do missions, etc. Everything we do as Christians must be focused on reaching the lost because God doesn’t want anyone to go to hell (2 Peter 3:9), but they will if they don’t accept Jesus. And Paul reminded us in Romans 10 that they cannot accept Jesus unless someone tells them, and God has chosen you and me to do the telling!