Pray for Everyone

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; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. (1 Timothy 2:1-4)

Supplication is often used specifically regarding praying for other believers. We supplicate when we pray on behalf of those we know have a relationship and covenant with Him. Supplication is a humble, earnest, heartfelt request we make on behalf of others or for ourselves. We are praying on behalf of others with our minds fixed on what God has said in His Word.

Intercession is another kind of prayer that Paul listed in 1 Timothy 2:1-4. Intercession is the act of reconciling two parties who are at odds or in contention with one another. As supplication is mostly for the saints, intercession is for the lost—either people who have walked away from relationship with God or people who have no relationship with God.

Paul said that God’s will is for intercession to be made for all men. That sounds virtuous and good, but are you actually willing to pray with passion and heart for everyone?

Will you pray for those who are far from God, those who offend you, or even those whose lifestyles are blatantly sinful? That’s who intercession is for—all men.

When we supplicate and intercede in prayer, we should do it with an attitude of gratitude. We can pray for those who are not living right because we are mindful of and thankful for what God has done for us. We know His personality and His heart. We know He will give them mercy because He is rich in mercy and has been so merciful to us!

Practical Application

Will you accept the challenge of interceding on behalf of someone you know isn’t living right with God? Will you supplicate for a saint that you don’t get along with?

Matthew 26:41; Psalm 54:2