The importance of prayer was emphasized to Timothy in a most unique way.

I Timothy 2:1-3:

I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;

For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.

For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;

Many Biblical scholars call the books to Timothy leadership epistles. Those who serve in ministry are benefited to read these books. Paul right away sets the importance of prayer as displayed in the record above.

Many however, miss the dynamics of why prayer is so important by not reading the previous verses, which are connected by the words: “I exhort therefore.” Here are the preceding verses to Chapter 2 that demonstrate why prayer is so essential:

I Timothy 1:18-20:

This charge I commit unto thee, son Timothy, according to the prophecies which went before on thee, that thou by them mightest war a good warfare;

Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck:

Of whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander; whom I have delivered unto Satan, that they may learn not to blaspheme.

The times were challenging in the early Church and Paul was not going to be around much longer. He was, by revelation from God, passing on wise counsel to young Timothy. As Paul charges Timothy to “war a good warefare” he reveals those who worked against the Church. Hymenaeus and Alexander were not recoverable and cast over to Satan. What follows this drastic action is a most critical act to be done. That is prayer. See how verse 1 reads following 1:20: “I exhort therefore,”. As a result of this act and charge in the previous verses, it is essential that leaders have a vibrant prayer life.

For us who serve today, may we realize how important our prayer life is for the blessing of all men and those in authority. God calls this “good and acceptable” in His sight.

Agape,

Bob