I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. (1 Timothy 2:1-4NIV)
Living in America can be similar to living in a bubble. We see all the hurt and problems happening around us, but we are safe in this American bubble. We feel like because we live in America, but don’t have the problems or war or poverty as many third world countries do. This can also affect the church as we focus on praying just for ourselves here in America and the problems facing our fellow citizens. From the perspective of the bubble, we have been seeing turmoil in other parts of the world, and we can’t forget that God doesn’t call us only to pray for those in our culture or nation, but for “all people” and those in “high positions”.
These prayers have a two fold purpose. The first purpose is to bless those who are followers of Christ. Our prayers for those outside of the bubble can change the minds of rulers and help our brothers and sisters in Christ live a “peaceful and quiet life”. It also blesses those who are not yet followers of Christ. Our prayers can be a powerful force in those who are far from God to “come to a knowledge of the truth”, that is Jesus Christ.
Make a commitment today to pray for those outside of your American bubble.