There’s both a moral crisis and a leadership crisis in America. Leadership is crucial. If our leadership is not what it should be, what will the people be like? God is greatly interested in a nation’s political life. Some say God ought to stay out of government, but the truth is, government must always look to Almighty God.
In November, American citizens will vote. For the Christian, voting is more than privilege—it’s a duty. If a Christian willingly does not vote, he disobeys God, for Jesus said, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s and to God the things that are God’s” (Mark 12:17, Matthew 22:21). In America, “We the people” are the government. To fail to participate is to sin against Almighty God.
It’s unthinkable that God would have ordained human government, then told His people to stay out of it. Who then would that leave to lead? I want to lay four important truths on your heart:
1. God Requires Character
Never say character doesn’t matter. God won’t bless iniquity. Character is rooted in God’s principles. A leader without character will contaminate whatever he touches. God’s Word says a leader should have:
Godliness (Psalm 1:1-3)
A leader is “a minister of God” (Romans 13:4). A ruler’s “throne” is “established in righteousness” (Psalm 148:11-12, Proverbs 16:12). The ungodly are unfit for leadership.
Wisdom (James 1:5)
True wisdom comes from godliness. What’s more important: to be smart or be wise? Wisdom is a gift from God.
Honesty (Proverbs 17:7 and 20:28)
Leaders cannot be liars. Liars shouldn’t be elected. Leaders must not listen to lies, either (Proverbs 29:12).
Discrimination when choosing the leadership team (Proverbs 25:5)
If a leader isn’t discriminating in choosing godly people to lead alongside him, he’s unfit for leadership.
Willingness to protect the weak (Proverbs 31:8-9)
When the weak are in peril, unable to speak for themselves, a leader should speak for them. If the leader doesn’t have a protective spirit, he’s missed the reason for being a leader. Leaders should be defenders standing up for the defenseless, especially innocent unborn babies (Psalm 94:20-21, Habakkuk 2:12).
2. God Respects Your Freedom to Choose
God allows you to choose against His will, even to vote in evil leaders, but when you do, they’ll bring you hardship and calamity. You’ll receive the leadership you deserve.
3. God Allows Consequences
When a wicked man rules, the people groan. (Proverbs 29:2)
We’re in desperate trouble. God has taken down the hedge. He’s no longer protecting America. We’re paying a price for the men and women we elect. The choice is ours: rejoicing or groaning.
4. God Retains Control
God is still the King of kings.
For God is the King of all the earth…. God sits on His holy throne. (Psalm 47:7-8)
The Lord sits as King forever. (Psalm 29:10)
You didn’t vote Him in and you won’t vote Him out. You’ll never impeach Him. He will overrule if He chooses (Psalm 33:10-12, Isaiah 14:26-27).
Soon, when He returns, Jesus will sit upon David’s throne. Neither presidents nor kings can stop Him.
Oh, that we might repent and there would be a mighty spiritual awakening in America!
No matter who wins the next election, rest assured the Holy Trinity never meets in emergency session. God is still in control. Jesus is my King, I have a steadfast, secure future.
Pray for revival.
Prepare for suffering.
Teach your children that life may not be like we had it.
Build character into your children for what they are about to face.
Be ready for Jesus’ arrival.
If you don’t know Jesus, don’t remain undecided.
