I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men. (1 Timothy 2:1)
1 Timothy 2:1 describes different kinds of prayer that Paul encouraged us to pray. Let’s look at a few of those mentioned.
Supplications are requests we make to God on behalf of others or ourselves. We can pray for God’s mercy, forgiveness, and intervention in the lives of those who either don’t have a relationship with God or don’t have the same level of revelation as we do. When we pray for God to forgive someone who has wronged us, it is a prayer of supplication.
When Paul mentioned prayers in this verse, he was referring to a broad spectrum of types of prayer. These could include adoration, confession, consecration, and more.
Intercessions are prayers that stand the gap for other people. Intercessory prayer can be powerful, especially when we pray in the Holy Spirit, allowing the Holy Spirit to pray God’s perfect will, even when we don’t know what that is.
Finally, Paul mentioned the prayer of thanksgiving. This powerful prayer acknowledges God’s goodness and faithfulness in our lives. Gratitude opens us up to receive more from God and expects what He has done before He can do it again. It keeps our minds focused not on the problems that surround us but on the God who loves us.
Paul instructed Timothy to pray these prayers for all men, including our family, friends, those in positions of authority, and even those we might label enemies.
Practical Application
What aspect of these different types of prayer isn’t highlighted in your everyday prayer routine? Remember to include supplications, intercessions, and giving of thanks for all men when you pray.