how to start fighting

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1 Timothy 2:1-4 (JDV)

1 Timothy 2:1 First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for every human,¹

1 Timothy 2:2 for kings and all those who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity.

1 Timothy 2:3 This is good, and it pleases God our Savior,

1 Timothy 2:4 who wants every human to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.

how to start fighting

Paul had just instructed Timothy to fight the good fight. Now, he gives the first step in doing that. For the world, learning to fight means getting yourself stronger, tougher, and smarter. But the first preparation step is different in spiritual warfare.

For Timothy (and us) starting to fight happens by praying. It is a specific type of praying. It is praying for the people in authority over us. Paul instructs Timothy to pray for his magistrates, governors, and emperor.

I pray for my president, governor and local leaders daily, and also my lawmakers and court judges. I pray for them regardless of the political party they might represent. The goal of this prayer is not for them to see my way of thinking. It is to give them wisdom to make the kind of decisions that will result in a peaceful political and cultural atmosphere — one conducive of discipleship and evangelism.

LORD, turn our leaders to making and defending policies which open the door for the gospel and biblical truth. Turn our hearts to praying for them.

1ἄνθρωπος = human. 1 Timothy 2:1, 4-5; 4:10; 5:24; 6:5, 9, 11, 16.