DUTY OR PRIVILEGE

DUTY OR PRIVILEGE
What an historical Inauguration Day this is regardless of how you may feel about our new President and his religious and political affiliations.

As real, genuine Christians, our duty now is to pray for him.

"What? Me pray for Barack Obama?"

Yep, you -- that's capital Y-O-U!

"But I didn't vote for him."

So?

"He's not of my political persuasion."

So?

"And I just don't agree with his policies."

So?

You know, I can't find the Scripture that says, "Pray for those for whom you voted." Nor can I find where the Bible says, "Pray for those of your political party." I can't even find anything that says, "Pray for those with whom you agree."

But I do find, "I exhort, therefore, that first of all..." -- did you note 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." I Timothy 2:1,2 (KJV)

The Living Bible paraphrase is even more explicit. "Here are my directions: Pray much..." -- we need to emphasize the word 'much' -- yes, pray MUCH "for others; plead for God's mercy upon them..." -- how about 'PLEAD for God's mercy upon Obama?' -- ... "Pray in this way for kings and all others who are in authority over us, or are in places of high responsibility..." -- Why? "...so that we can live in peace and quietness, spending our time in godly living and thinking much about the Lord."

Wow! That says it all! It's a direct command, too!

It's a duty AND a privilege to pray for Obama. Let's not fail him. Above all, let's not fail the Lord!

Preacher's Kid

P.S. I Timothy 2:1,2 also covers State, County and local officials!