First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, 2 for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. 3 This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
Sometimes it's not some physical or spiritual problem we're struggling with: it's relational. Sometimes, when it is people in power it is both: we don't like them and we don't like how what they do affects our lives and our situation. God tells us to pray not against them, but for them: that we cry their names and their needs out before him; that we view them as people created in His image; that we ask Him to step in and do something for them, with them, and through them. Why? If there is peace and stability, we have the opportunity by our lives to shine and show the salvation God has given us. The Roman Empire was not an easy life for many people. It was idolatrous, immoral and oppressive. But it also offered people like Paul the peace and privilege of traveling all over the world, even on paved roads, to preach the gospel. Those are things that God sees we often cannot. So we should pray for our leaders, with thanksgivings for them.
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