ALL IN AUTHORITY

 We might not agree with who is in a governmental or even a religious position. We are, however, encouraged to pray for all people, including those who are in positions of authority.

It’s not just for their benefit, but for ours.

“Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” (1 Timothy 2:1-4)

Men and women entrusted in positions of leadership should be people who cause them act justly, love mercy and are humbled, not prideful due to their role. Our prayers for them provide the opportunity for them to bear the burden of leadership, operate in wisdom, and use their gifts for the benefit of all.

Wise and servant leaders create the ability for each of us to lead a quiet and peaceable life. A quiet and peaceable life does not mean there will not be difficulties. It does however mean, that we can have a quieted mind and peaceable spirit because we trust those in leadership to do the right thing, in the best interests of all they serve over.

Some leaders have the ability to steward tens, others hundreds, still others thousands and tens of thousands. Each of those roles have a weight that each individual called to that position is gifted to carry. But that does not mean they do not grow weary in their duties.

“And so it was, when Moses held up his hand, that Israel prevailed; and when he let down his hand, Amalek prevailed. But Moses’ hands became heavy; so they took a stone and put it under him, and he sat on it. And Aaron and Hur supported his hands, one on one side, and the other on the other side; and his hands were steady until the going down of the sun.” (Exodus 17:11-12)

Moses’ strength began to fail, but the battle was not over. His trusted advisors did not tell him to take a nap, step down, let them take over, or give him advice. They rallied around him and lifted his arms for him to fulfill his responsibilities.

Whose arms are you raising?

Those in positions of authority are first and foremost, people. That should matter above all else. Praying, interceding, and giving thanks to God for them opens the ability for them to come to the knowledge of the truth of who they are and who their God is.

So, regardless of their political affiliation, spiritual condition or personalities, we are to lift them up so we have the opportunity to lead a quiet and peaceable life.

Lift up their arms!