Watchword: Daily Text
August 19, 2013
I Timothy 1:12-2:2
I marvel at Paul’s spiritual tenacity – the man is likely
suffering. This is, after all, one of his prison epistles. At this point, he’s not so concerned about
the conditions that he, Paul, is facing.
He is grateful for his salvation – he’s grateful that he has a future
with God, after all he’s done.
I am also amazed at Paul’s prayer list in the midst of his
suffering. He tells Timothy to pray for everyone (2:1). Then he commands Timothy to pray for kings
and authority figures – I wonder if the Christians of that day were struggling
– persecuted, hurting frightened, and then they receive a letter from their
friend in prison --- Pray for the king who put me here (WHAT?) and while you’re
at it “lead tranquil and quiet lives in godliness an dignity” (I Timothy 2:2
HCSB)[1].
In other words, they weren’t to be Roman rebel rousers – but to submit to the
will of God – and pray even for Nero and his persecuting henchman – for the
sake of the gospel – for the glory of God.
That’s triumph! That same command
stands for the 21st century church wherever we live – Pray for those
in authority – live godly and peaceable lives.
I think today’s watchword is obvious.
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