Pray for all people

"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." 1 Timothy 2:1,2 NLT

On February 18, Runner's World Magazine posted an article titled "20 Best President's Day Sales of 2022" where they listed 20 must-have items a runner could acquire for a reduced price on this holiday. The list included shoes, active-wear, air-pods, an exercise bike, a coffee maker, and even bedding. "Presidents Day," they wrote, "may not be the first holiday that comes to mind when you think of sales, but there are actually tons of amazing deals to be had as the holiday approaches—if you know where to look. This year, you can enjoy serious discounts on everything from new running shoes to clothes to bedding sets to small electronics from top brands like Nike, Apple, and NordicTrack, among others.... Instead of spending hours tracking down the best deals for yourself, we've done the hard work for you, gathering the best Presidents Day sales of 2022." 

And you know, when it comes to "spending hours" doing something, there's something far more worthwhile than shopping that you and I should be doing today. And that's praying for all people as we are commanded to do in the Bible. We are not only to pray for all people, asking God to help them and giving thanks for them though, but to pray "for kings and all those who are in authority so that we can leave peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity." This means we are to pray for our government officials (international, national, and local), our pastors, our church elders, our school boards, our school principals, our employers, and the like. To pray that they would not only accept Jesus Christ as their Savior if they haven't already but would allow God to guide them in the way they should lead us. 

So as we celebrate President's Day today my friends, let us remember to pray for those in authority remembering that God has placed them where they are for this very time, and to remember that God can change the heart of any person. Earnestly seek the peace and prosperity of our nation through prayer, because when it prospers, we prosper too. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the knowledge that You are sovereign above all things. You put kings and rulers in their places at Your proper time for You proper purpose. Lord, help us to understand this so that we would pray for kings and all those in authority as we are commanded to do. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!