“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people.” — 1 Timothy 2:1 OUR VOCATION: TO PRAY FOR ALL Paul says “first of all,” it’s a priority. And the object of this prayer is: for all people. Not just for believers, not just for loved ones, not just for those who deserve our compassion, but for everyone. We cannot sincerely pray for someone without something changing within us toward that person. Intercession is the most effective way to learn to love those who are difficult for us; it places us before God with them, and His love for them begins to transform our own. “Petitions, prayers, intercessions, thanksgivings”—Paul uses a variety of terms to express the rich diversity of the prayer life. Each term conveys something different. Intercession is a complete life of relationship with God on behalf of the world. Today, name in your prayer someone you don't usually pray for, perhaps someone with whom you have a difficult relationship. Pray for them sincerely. You can begin by saying: Father, fill my heart with intercession beyond those closest to me. Teach me to pray for everyone, as you love them all. May my prayer life be a channel through which your grace flows more fully to the world in Jesus' name. Amen. #Prayer🙏🏼 #SpiritAndLife🔥