2:1-2 Pray for Everyone No one is above the need for God’s help in carrying out their responsibilities. So in his instructions for worship, Paul encouraged Timothy to “pray for all people.” He went on to specifically note the need to pray for government officials and those in authority because it allows Christians to “live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity.” Rather than simply complaining about policy changes or worrying about funding cuts in health care or benefits, let us first pray for those in authority.