"Therefore, I urge, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people... For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth" (1 Tim., ch. 2, vv. 1, 3-4*).
On the globe in my office, I can see continents, countries, and names of cities around the world. I gently spin it every day. Shortly after, I place my finger on the globe to stop the rotation. Then I begin to pray for the people and the current situation in the country where my finger stopped.
This practice holds immense meaning for me. It reminds me that intercessory prayer knows no boundaries. I pray to the Lord for the salvation, spiritual renewal, and well-being of people from cities and countries whose names I have barely heard of. I sincerely believe that words offered to God from a humble heart extend far beyond the small Caribbean island where I live.
Prayer for different nations across the face of the Earth can transform societies, families, and individuals whose faces I can only imagine. John, ch. 17 describes the example of the Lord Jesus, who intercedes for the people: "I pray for them" (v. 9*). These words are simple yet powerful. If Christ takes the time to pray for His followers and others, then we can do the same.
Link to the original article: https://www.upperroom.org/devotionals/en-2023-07-25
* The biblical quotes are from Bible, new translation from the original languages © Bulgarian Bible Society 2013