1 Timothy 2:1-8

Pray

Do you want the dash on your tombstone to represent something significant? Pray, and pray like you mean it! Join the symphony!

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

We often criticize those in positions of authority as they act and react in ways that contradict our belief system. Perhaps they know things we do not. Just maybe they see the big picture we are not privileged to view.

We justify our disappointments by saying it is part of God’s plan that we do not understand because we are not entitled to knowing all the details. We settle into our circumstances because we know we are not in control. God is.

Paul urges us to do the same in regards to those in authority because God has placed them there for our good. He tells us not to criticize, but to pray for them, for more people in authority knowing Jesus means more Godly decisions will be made, leading to quiet and peaceful lives.

It is difficult to believe my little prayer will make a difference, but think about the power in numbers. Every quiet little prayer adds to the volume and effectiveness. Envision a musical performance as you sit back in your seat in a crowded theater.  The performance begins with a single, slow, sincere, a Capella voice. Then a duet ensues. Soon, the chorus fades in with gentle harmony, followed by glimpses of instrumental interludes. As the tempo gradually increases, the voices and instruments merge. The auditorium is saturated with a beautiful melody.  Together the individual tones, pitches and intervals create an intense symphony like crescendo that fills the music hall with spirit and power!

Prayer is like that. If we pray as God and Paul have instructed, we can be part of a breath taking symphony that creates passion and brings about love.  

Read/Listen to 1 Timothy 2:1-8 

1Timothy 1: 12-16

The Lord’s Grace to Paul and Us

Does not the Lord make example of people and situations in our lives in order to reveal himself or draw us closer to Him? Would you agree there have been times when you have felt or said; “That was a God thing?”

Paul was definitely “A God Thing” and he knew it. In 1 Timothy 1:15-16 Paul wrote something worth remembering; “Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners – of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who believe on him and receive eternal life.” Yes, believe “on” him.

As we travel this journey of life and make ourselves aware of the trials and struggles others face, we can learn from their mistakes as well as triumphs. We can gain wisdom from their tears and their anger. Just as God is a relational God, we too are relational human beings in need of others.

 At times we may be the example, support or love needed by another, yet other times we are the one in need of a rock to lean on, a Paul in our life who can help us make sense of our situation.

Paul’s heart grew into one of passion and compassion for God and people. He is such an incredible example of transformation there are 13 books in the bible written by him.

Romans 
1 Corinthians 
2 Corinthians 
Galatians 
Ephesians 
Philippians 
Colossians 
1 Thessalonians 
2 Thessalonians 
1 Timothy 
2 Timothy 
Titus 
Philemon

No one knows for sure who wrote Hebrews, but if it was Paul, then his total is at 14.

Paul had to tell his story, through the power and inspiration of the Holy Spirit. What a blessing for us!

Dear God,

We thank you for your gracious and unending love. You shower us with blessings we do not even acknowledge and offer us new mercies every day regardless of our gratefulness. Your forgiveness for Paul and for us goes far beyond reasonable in our limited minds, but we are so very humbled and honored to call ourselves your children. We will focus on you Lord, and though we too are the worst of sinners, we will use Paul as our example and you Christ, as our Rock.

Read/Listen to 1 Timothy 1: 12-16