1 Timothy 2: FIRST THINGS FIRST – PRAY!

 

FIRST THINGS FIRST – PRAY!

 

S – SCRIPTURE

 I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— ² for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. 1 Timothy 2:1

 

O – OBSERVATION

Paul wrote to Timothy, who was serving the church in Ephesus. He instructed Timothy about how believers should conduct themselves in the church, emphasizing the importance of prayer.

 Three important lessons:

 1. Prayer must be our first priority (v. 1)

 - Paul says, "First of all," emphasizing the importance of prayer.

- Before making plans, decisions, or taking action, we should seek God.

- Prayer shows our dependence on God rather than ourselves.

 2. Prayer must include others (v. 1)

 Four expressions of prayer:

• Petitions: Bringing specific needs before God.

• Prayers: Communicating with God in worship and dependence.

• Intercession: Praying on behalf of others.

• Thanksgiving: Expressing gratitude for God's goodness.

 Prayer should extend beyond our personal concerns to our families, church, community, and even those who have hurt us.

 3. Prayer must include those in authority (v. 2)

 • We are commanded to pray for leaders and people in positions of authority.

• We should ask God to give them wisdom, justice, humility, and guidance.

• A peaceful and orderly society provides opportunities for believers to live godly lives and serve others.

  

A – APPLICATION

 

1. Pray before you act

Before beginning your day, teaching a class, serving in ministry, or making an important decision, seek God's guidance first.

 2. Pray for others, not just yourself

When a brother or sister is struggling spiritually, instead of criticizing them, pray for their restoration and strength.

 3. Pray for your leaders

Pray for pastors, ministry leaders, teachers, government officials, and authorities, asking God to give them wisdom and integrity.

 4. Practice thanksgiving in every situation

Even when prayers are not answered the way you expect, continue thanking God for His faithfulness.

Begin each day with prayer. Before checking your phone, making plans, or worrying about responsibilities, spend time with God.

 P – PRAYER

"Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that prayer should always come first in our lives. Forgive us for the times we depend on our own strength instead of seeking You. Teach us to pray faithfully, not only for our needs but also for our family, church, leaders, and those around us. Give wisdom to those in authority and help us live peaceful and godly lives. May prayer become our first response in every situation. In Jesus' name, Amen."

 

Reflection Questions

 1. Is prayer my first response or my last resort?

2. Do I pray for my families and even the ones who have hurt me?

3. Do I regularly pray for my church including our pastors, leaders and members?

4. Do I spend more time worrying about my problems than praying about them?

 Sometimes, we are QUICK to plan, decide, worry, and complain—but slow to pray.

 But God reminds us that prayer is not something we do only when everything else fails. It should be where we begin.

 Before you worry, PRAY.

Before you decide, PRAY.

Before you serve, PRAY.

Before you react, PRAY.

Before you start your day, PRAY

 When we put prayer first, we acknowledge that we need God's wisdom, guidance, and strength in everything.

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PASTORA PAULA - JCRC CAMBODIA