A Word from 1 Timothy 2

How are you feeling about the state of the world these days? To be honest, between the political gridlock and the partisan griping—the international conflict and the economic uncertainty—I find it hard to feel all that good about things. But then, when I read today’s word from 1^st Timothy chapter 2, I’m reminded that God offers an “action plan” to those of us who are distressed about the state of the world. One that’s a lot more useful and hopeful than casting blame or getting caught in the negativity of social media. And what is that action plan? Well, Paul puts it like this…

“I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority, so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity. This is good and pleases God our Savior, who wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth.” (1 Tim. 2:1-4)

You see, none of us has the power to fix the brokenness of the world around us. But we know the One who does. And we know that His desire is for everyone to get in on the good news of what He’s done for us in Christ. And that’s most likely to happen—not when we gripe and complain, or try to force our convictions on others who feel differently—but when we pray for God’s Spirit to be at work, and when we live lives that demonstrate the goodness of the God we claim to serve.

So, let me ask: When’s the last time that you prayed—and I mean really prayed—for the leaders of our country and our world…for those in need and those we perceive to be enemies…for those who need the gospel and those who are trying to share it?

Well, may the world be a little bit better today, because we were faithful to lift it into the arms of our Father. Amen.