“First of all, then, I urge that requests, prayers, intercessions, and thanks be offered on behalf of all people, even for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life in all godliness and dignity.”
1 Timothy 2:1-2 NET
It is so easy to pray for people we like, to pray for those we don't know but who we know are struggling, to pray for that child over in Africa that is starving. But how easy is it for you to pray for someone you don't like, or even better...a leader who you don't agree with or like? I know I am going to step on a few toes on this one, but regardless of whether we like someone or not, or whether we like their politics or not, or whether we like their sermon or not, we are instructed to pray for ALL people. ALL people doesn't mean only those you like, or those whose views you agree with. It also doesn't mean only those bosses that treat you well. ALL people means just that...ALL people, church leaders, friends, neighbors, co-workers, politicians...and yes even the president of the United States. It is so easy to complain about people, our bosses, our church leaders, our politicians, our president, but why is it so difficult to pray for them? God never did say complain about your neighbor or complain about your leaders. God DID say pray for them, and that's what we as children of God need to do!
Take Away: the next time you feel the urge to complain about someone, stop yourself and make the decision to pray for them instead.
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