1 Timothy 2:1-4 NKJV
Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
Paul gives Timothy, his mentee advice on operating as a leader in the church. He encourages prayers of all kinds be lifted up. He specifies praying for all men. He also points out the reason to pray for those in governmental leadership. When governments are influenced by the devil, it makes it harder to live in peace. On the other hand, if they are influenced by God it helps us live in peace and creates an atmosphere conducive to godly and reverent living. This enhances the possibilities of reaching everyone with the gospel. Paul tells Timothy that God wants everyone to be saved. It is obvious that what God wants does not automatically happen as some think. We must participate in God’s program to reach the lost. We must also pray that conditions will be favorable to enable us to do our work unhindered. God ordained prayer and He answers prayer. Our responsibility is to take advantage of that and pray.