Times such as these we become more conscious of the need for God to “get involved” in what is going on around us. For the past week we’ve been hearing about Cyclone Alfred (now EX-tropical cyclone Alfred). And next weekend we have a local by-election for our State parliament member. Perhaps we don’t think so much about that one. It’s barely been mentioned in any news.
What is our part and our role in praying for our nation and it’s people?
1 Tim 2:1-4
I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.
1 Timothy 2:1-4
Jesus teaches us to pray
Some of the best known words of Jesus are when he teaches the disciples to pray in Matthew 6:9-13.
One of the striking features of this seminal prayer is how it centres around “us” rather than “me” or “them”. It seems that one of Jesus emphasis about prayers of petition is IDENTIFICATION. Jesus himself models to the utmost the power of identification in both his incarnation and his cross.
What about repentance – where does that fit?
Let’s take a moment to wrestle with this one… Numerous times over many years I’ve heard and read about people calling for repentance on behalf of others, especially for our nation. Indicating the idea that if we (believers) repent, God will do something, that it will somehow unlock a spiritual awakening or revival for others. 2 Chronicles 7:14 is commonly cited as teaching something along those lines, but is that really what it teaches us for our nation today? Identification is important in interceding for others, but do we find in scripture any indication that we should or even can repent on behalf of others? It’s important to ground our intercession and faith on biblical foundations.
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