Be Still: Father, thank you that you meet me where I am today. Please strengthen me in your Spirit and speak to me through your Word. Amen
Read: 1 Timothy 1:18-2:14
I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, intercessions and thanksgiving be made for all people – for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. (v1–2)
Encounter: On Saturday 28th February 2026, Donald Trump gave the order to launch Operation Epic Fury. This decision has had a huge impact on the lives of not only those in the Middle East who have been directly impacted by the conflict, but also millions of others around the world who have felt the economic impacts of the subsequent blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.
Whether or not you are a fan of Trump or agree with US foreign policy, there is no denying that the modern-day equivalents of 'kings' have a huge impact on our lives. Their decisions impact the amount of money we have in our pockets, the curriculum that is taught to our kids, the availability of good secure jobs, how safe our streets are…the list goes on. But more than that, it impacts our ability to live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. Decisions made by kings determine how easy it is for us to follow Jesus.
Paul urges us therefore to pray and intercede for those in authority. Not because they are more important than the rest of us (in the same verse we’re called to pray for all people) but because their decisions and actions are consequential for our lives.
Apply: Pick a couple of 'kings' today and pray for them. You could choose someone who has been in the news recently, or someone who has authority over something that you particularly care about. Pray that they would fear God, make wise and just decisions that will help us all to live a peaceful, quiet life in all godliness and holiness.
Devote: Jesus, please help me to pray for people in authority this week.