I exhort therefore, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and givings of thanks, be made for all men:
In all godliness and gravity ...  The first noun here has reference to the discharge of religious duties; and, according to Lenski, gravity refers to "dignified and worthy conduct toward our fellow men."[9] There is also evident in these verses the reason for offering prayers upon behalf of governmental authorities.  Such rulers as kings can, by their mistakes, bring untold sorrow upon all their subjects, as well as rich blessings through righteous rule.  Therefore, the church should never forget to pray for such leaders.