“For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.”
I Timothy 2:3-4 NKJV
When you think of the fact that God wants all men to be saved, what comes to your mind? Do you realise that “all men” actually means “all men”? That is, the good and the bad, the educated and the non-educated, the rich and the poor, the governing authorities and the citizens likewise. God wants all to be saved.
Talking about governing authorities, in today’s devotional, we will examine God’s will for them from two perspectives.
At the beginning of our anchor scripture for today, Paul the Apostle urges Timothy and us by extension to pray for all people, especially those who are in authority:
“I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity.”
1 Timothy 2:1-2 NLT
God is not indifferent or less concerned about the governing authorities in our world or our countries. As a matter of fact, it’s God’s order for us to have them lead us.
“…God also has an interest in keeping order, and he uses them to do it…”
Romans 13:3-5 MSG
The Bible says in Romans 13:1-3 that all authorities come from God and those in power have been chosen by Him and anyone who rebels against authority rebels against God.
These leaders have been placed over us for the purpose of orderliness, therefore, we must pray for them. This is the first perspective. The second perspective is to pray and desire for them to be saved and come to the knowledge of Christ. Look, even if the people governing your country are bad, God’s will is for them to be saved from eternal damnation.
God doesn’t want any of them to die a sinner, therefore, you must not want that for them too, regardless of their actions and inactions (Ezekiel 18:23, Titus 3:1-2).
Of a truth, they may have a million and one faults but you must remember that God loves them regardless. You are not permitted to wish them death, especially in their state of darkness. You too didn’t merit salvation, so you must make sure that no matter what they have done, are doing or will do, God wills that you pray for them and that they will be saved.
Finally, be reminded that God leaves no one behind, therefore, you too must desire that no one is left behind.
Bible Reading Plan: John 12:12-19, 1 John 5:1-12, Job 17, Ezekiel 48