ESOCS Devotional 7 November
TEXT: 1 Timothy 2: 1-15 KJV
MEMORY VERSE: “I will therefore that men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.” 1 Timothy 2: 8 KJV
Prayer is a key aspect of the Church. It was a major factor in the early Church that made them enjoy the favour of God and men (Acts 2: 42). Christians are therefore constantly exhorted to pray. It is by prayers that all supplications, intercessions, and giving of thanks can be made for all men (1 Timothy 2:1–2).
Paul emphasized the importance of praying for kings and all that are in authority. This is because they are faced with a lot of decision to be taken and these decisions, if not properly taken, will affect us in the end. So, Christians are exhorted to pray for kings and all in authority for God’s guidance in making decisions that will help all to live a quiet and peaceful life in all godliness and honesty. Another reason why Christians must pray for those in authority is that it is good and pleases God (1Timothy 2: 2 – 3). It is important to note that praying Christians can positively influence the course of history (Daniel 6: 10).
The place of prayer is also important. Verse 8 of our text emphasized that it should be done everywhere. In other words, wherever the saints are gathered to worship, prayers can be made – by the riverside (Acts 16: 13), on the mountaintop (Luke 6: 12), or in a solitary place (Mark 1: 35). It can be done everywhere and anywhere.
Read yesterday’s ESOCS Devotional here
The conditions of successful, effective prayer are also important. There must be reverent posture – “lifting up holy hands”. This indicates the attitude of the soul. There must be clean hands signifying holiness, without stain. There must also be a pure heart. This signifies no resentment, without anger. We must not pray with a wrong spirit, and most importantly, we must pray in faith, completely trusting God.
CHALLENGES
- Do you pray everywhere? What is your state of heart when offering prayer?
PRAYER POINT
- Ask God to rekindle your prayer life and fill you with love to pray for all men so that you will enjoy quietness and peace of mind.
FURTHER READING: Job 9:1-20; 10:13-22; 1 Timothy 3:1-16
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ESOCS Devotional 7 November
