: Dr. Anderson Henry Ruffin
: Standing In The Gap
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: 9798317818142
: Standing In The Gap
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: Philosophie, Religion
: English
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A rising cry echoes from the depths of the Church; a sacred ache that can no longer be silenced. We witness injustice spreading rapidly, confusion dominating society, and corruption infiltrating all levels of leadership. This injustice is like wildfire, visible in public squares, while confusion pervades every corner of culture. It is not just superficial discomfort or fleeting feelings, but a profound cry of anguish from those who can no longer ignore the spiritual decline around them.

Dr. Anderson Henry Ruffin grew up in Lisman, Alabama and learned to pick cotton and pull corn from the stalks as a child. Determining to find a way out. Dr. Ruffin attended Alabama State University graduating with a bachelor and master's degree in music education. He earned a Doctor of Ministry from Virginia University of Lynchburg, Virginia. Dr. Ruffin taught public school forty-four years as a band director. Within the last decade, the world has shifted dramatically in the economy, the political landscape, in our personal view of end times. Each generation need to be informed, whether it's the aging Baby Boomers or the young Millennials, approaching life with a different set of questions of the Book of Revelation. We need to be wise. We cannot know the message of the Bible for today until we know its meaning.

CHAPTER ONE

The Prayer We Cannot Skip—
Interceding for Leaders

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 andhonesty.
—Timothy 2:1–2

Have you ever observed a news headline and contemplated, “Why would I pray forthem?” Have you ever experienced the sentiment that interceding for a politician, a president, or a mayor who derides your faith constitutes a futile endeavor? You are not alone.

However, the word of God does not afford us the luxury of spiritual silence. The Scriptures offer a reminder that intercession transcends our feelings; it is about remaining steadfast in response to God’s command. We possess a divine responsibility to pray for leaders, including those who repudiate Christ. There are celestial ramifications when we decline to do so.

The apostle Paul commences this exhortation to the youthful Timothy with a sense of urgency, “I exhort, therefore, that, first of all” (1 Tim. 2:1). This statement does not merely suggest a course of action; it is a primary instruction within the Christian life. It signifies a critical priority.

What, then, constitutes this priority? “Those supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all that are in authority” (1 Tim. 2:1).

The Holy Spirit, conveying a message through Paul, elevates the directive to pray from the confines of the pews to the halls of power. This imperative extends not only to the sick and the faithful, but also to sovereigns, including those who may be obstinate, corrupt, or cruel. This encompasses Roman emperors such as Nero, who was known for executing Christians.

It also pertains to presidents who endorse immoral legislation, governors who disregard Scripture, and influencers who wield power without regard for the divine. Nevertheless, the Word remains resolute, “Pray for them.”

One might wonder why God would require our intercession for leaders who act contrary to Him. The apostle Paul provides insight, stating, “That we may lead a quiet and peaceful life in all godliness and honesty” (1 Tim. 2:2). Our prayers yield consequences that extend beyond mere salvation; they influence our societal tranquility, our freedom to share the Gospel, and our capacity to embody godliness openly. Through our prayers, God mitigates evil, softens hardened hearts, and facilitates opportunities for evangelism.

Conversely, when we choose silence, we effectively concede the spiritual battleground to the forces of darkness.

Samuel, the prophet, stood before a rebellious nation. The people demanded a king, thus rejecting God’s sovereign reign. Samuel proclaimed, “God forbid that I should sin against the Lord in ceasing to pray for you” (1 Sam. 12:23).

To abstain from intercession is not merely an act of indifference; it constitutes a sin against the Lord. It is essential to comprehend this matter. When we neglect to pray for our leaders, regardless of our sentiments to