These past few weeks have called on a lot of times when I really needed prayer. Times of need, sadness, joy and heartache. Often, we don’t take the time we need to pray. We think of it when we’re busy or time poor and try to fit it in. Just like reading important emails, spending time with family or even just time for ourselves, prayer must be considered as an important part of our day. We need to remember to set aside time for prayer – or somehow it can suddenly become a brief and undervalued add on to our busy day. 

The book of 1 Timothy gives us so many helpful instructions for our own prayer. In chapter 2, Paul writes to Timothy: 

2 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. 3 This is good, and pleases God our Saviour, 4 who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave himself as a ransom for all people. This has now been witnessed to at the proper time. 7 And for this purpose I was appointed a herald and an apostle—I am telling the truth; I am not lying—and a true and faithful teacher of the Gentiles. 

8 Therefore I want the men everywhere to pray, lifting up holy hands without anger or disputing. 

So, with this in mind, continue to set aside prayer in your day. Just as you would your preparation for the day, your lunch, and anything else we prioritise. Do it alone, but also do it with others, for others, for all. 

Dear Father, king of nations and peoples, 

This is for all people everywhere - We plead for all people because they all need you. We pray for all people, so they talk to you. We intercede for all people, so they know what to ask. We give thanks for all people to express gratitude. We thank you for their lives, and we give thanks to you for all that you give them. 

We pray for national, regional, and local leaders and all who are in high positions. May they exercise wisdom and justice so that we who follow you may live quiet and peaceable lives, godly and respectful in every way. 

We know that such prayer is good and acceptable in your sight, because we know that you want everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 

In the name of Jesus Christ, who gave his life for us. 

Amen.