Pray Or Criticize?

“First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior…” (1 Timothy 2:1-3 ESV).

“I’ll pray for you.” “You are in my prayers.” 

Even non-religious people recognize it’s polite to wrap our concern and heartfelt empathy in the verbal cloak of “prayer.” 

The word readily—and quickly—flows from our lips, whether or not we believe prayer makes a difference. After all, it appears somewhat callous for us to ignore the plight of others without at least offering an expression that goes beyond sympathy. It’s polite to acknowledge that we won’t forget their situation. 

“Prayer” is a word that reveals our support to those who suffer or need direction, encouragement, or assistance—whether we mean it or not. “I’ll be praying for you…” seems to appease me while letting me off the hook. It’s a statement that offers me an opportunity to soothe and excuse, acknowledge and avoid if I fail to take prayer seriously.

Paul’s words to Timothy stress the importance of prayer. The local culture of Paul and Timothy exerted enormous pressure on community life. Cultural preference and influence, regularly promoted by governing authorities, sought to suppress the gospel message. Sound familiar?

Paul’s instructions to Timothy go beyond directives for public worship in the church. Paul sees prayer as essential—a force that has the power to change situations and advance the church’s mission. He’s concerned that the church is being distracted from its mission by false teachers (1 Tim. 3:14-15), and reminds his audience of prayer’s priority.

Never underestimate the power of prayer! Prayer is a force that can change and unite divided hearts. In a polarized society increasingly divided by opinions, prayer refocuses our attention on our true source of salvation.

It may be helpful to remember that when Paul writes this directive to Timothy, Nero is emperor. He’s not sympathetic toward Christians and is insistent on persecuting followers of Jesus. 

Paul, recently released from his Roman imprisonment, is incredibly aware of the deteriorating political atmosphere. What’s his recommendation? PRAY. Pray for the salvation of all men—especially rulers. 

It’s pretty apparent: Criticizing our leaders is more popular than praying for them. Times of political and social upheaval were difficult for Paul and the church under Nero’s reign. And, whether Democrats or Republicans become our leaders in our upcoming elections, it’s a certainty that turmoil will continue.

I wonder what it would be like if we intentionally offered prayer for those who lead us rather than criticizing them?

Could it be that Paul rightly understood that peace and contentment is the fruit of prayer?