“First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, for kings and all those who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity.” (vv. 1-2)

Look again at Paul’s inspired instruction:

We are called to pray for, intercede for, and bring petition about our leaders and rulers and authorities. We are called to call out to God—specifically about our earthly officials. It’s a matter of prayer so vital that Paul brings it up as prt of the right conduct of men and women in worship.

Here’s the thing: we don’t actually have much of a problem doing it.

But are we doing it for the right reasons?

I think we often get caught praying wrongly for such authorities. We pray for little else beyond what we hope they will do (and that we will agree with it).

What we are called to pray about is this:

The preservation of just enough societal space for us to work. To live with godly dignity. And, ultimately, to evangelize—because God would have us match our priorities with His, and His priority is the rescue of the lost.

I am far less concerned about getting what I want politically than I am going with the Gospel. May my prayers for those who govern reflect that, as I pray for them to give us that ground.

— Tyler