Numbers 30:1-31:54; Proverbs 26:13-27:27; Luke 3:1-38
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. 1 Timothy 2:1-2 NKJV
This wasn’t a call for political engagement. Paul’s admonition was an urgent call for activism in prayer. Despite the “real” persecution the Christians were suffering, Paul didn’t so much as even hint at endorsing displays of contempt towards Nero’s government. Rather than resorting to common ways to protest evil, he urged the uncommon. Show the love of Christ to all and pray for all regardless of their politics, policies or practices—ultimately for the glory of God and the furtherance of the Gospel. —Peter Ramsay
Here ’mid earth’s sin and sorrow and care;
O give me power, power in prayer. —A. S. Reitz