Passage Read: 1 Timothy 1-2
Meditation Verses: 2:1-4
Thought
A tranquil and quiet life is good in God's eyes if it is lived in godliness and dignity. It helps further God's desire that all men be saved and come to a knowledge of the truth. Whether that is by the granting of such prayers that reveals the truth and power of God or through the godly and dignified testimony of men and women displayed freely and widely because of the peace they enjoy. Peace and tranquility should not be contrary to the mission of God, rather it should provide a platform for the proclamation of Christ. It is dangerous only if it leads the people of God to live for the things of the world rather than the things of God. That was the problem with Sodom and Gomorrah, and it became a problem of the people of Israel. There are those like the Thessalonians who come to faith in Christ in the midst of suffering, yet even Paul called them to lead quiet and simple lives, providing for their own needs and minding their own business.
Application
If there is no peace in the environment around me, I should still seek it by prayer for those in authority and for all men, in hope that all might come to a knowledge of the truth. When all men know God and fear God, they walk in obedience to His good, righteous and neighbor-loving will. But I can also seek peace in my own life, even if there is no peace in the community and society around me. But that doesn't mean I'm to just focus on myself and ignore those around me. My goal above all else should be to live a righteous and honorable life that can help others come to the knowledge of God, if they look. Indeed, praying continually for all men everywhere so that I can lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity should burden me with their own desire for peace and quiet and enjoyment of God's favor. If I pray just until I can lead a quiet life, then I've missed the point. This kind of praying is not primarily about me and my peace, but about them knowing the truth about Jesus.