1 Timothy 2:1-2 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.

This is election week in the US and a good time to think through our relationship to
human authority.

The Christians in Paul's day lived under human authority that, as a rule, had no place for God.  Not completely unlike the conditions many Christians live under today.

What was, what is, a Christian to do?

We know from other scriptures that it is right for believers to fulfill their civic duties and participate in the political system. Christians should vote.  Believers should seek to influence their country for God as they engage in the politics of the day as God leads them. (Matthew 22; Romans 13)

Yet the one responsibility every Christian has, not only to civil authority, but to all authority in life is to pray.

Pray for those in authority over us regardless of their political leanings, religious leanings or personal conduct.

Let us this week add to our prayer list those whom God has placed in authority over our lives. Not only in the political world, but in other areas of our lives such as work, school, etc.

Remember, “The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much”. James 5:16b