1 Timothy 2:1-8 (NIV)
I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all people. This has now been witnessed at the proper time. And for this purpose I was appointed a herald and an apostle—I am telling the truth, I am not lying—and a true and faithful teacher of the Gentiles. Therefore I want men everywhere to pray, lifting up holy hands without anger or disputing.
Paul was teaching Timothy a formula to pray. He lists the types of situations, people, and personal attitudes needed
for successful praying. We use this formula for intercessory prayer a lot. Use it as an outline, and fill in all the areas that you know personally, (for example: the names of the local governmental agents, the pastor, the school administration board). Allow God to lead you in what to pray for each of those he places on your heart in that session of prayer.
This type of praying is very successful when used with faith and the Lord’s leading.
