When we add the last couple of weeks to most of last year it may cause us to raise our hands and signal “time out.” No matter what our political persuasions are, lives have been lost for months; lives lost as a result of an angry mob. Consequently, unnecessary loss of life can create a litany of questions. Some people may approach these questions from a political perspective, while others may use their past experiences. I would rather look at all that has taken place and reflect on it from God’s Word; I am told not to lean to my own understanding (Proverbs 3:5-6; 1 Corinthians 1:20-25). Because of the length of this paper, I will summarize.
When there is this much division, James describes it in this manner; “Who among you is wise and understanding? …………… But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your heart, do not be arrogant and so lie against the truth. This wisdom is not that which comes down from above but is earthly, natural, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every evil thing.” (James 3:13-17; NASB)
When the government makes decisions that we may stand opposed to, what does God expect of us as His followers since we are first “His citizens of His nation” (Ephesians 2:17-19; 1 Peter 2:9-10). “Let every person be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except God, and those which exist are established by God. Therefore, he who resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God, and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves. ………… for it is a minister of God to you for good…….. (Romans 13:1-7; NASB) Please note that Christ, through Paul, is speaking to believers in Rome. Those in government most likely were not believers, and later Rome persecuted believers horribly. Believers living in these horrible circumstances were told the same thing (1 Peter 2:13-17). Before those who like the new President say, “Praise the Lord,” we must first ask the question; If this was President Trump, would we still say “Amen?”
Following the Lord is not being led by circumstances. We are expected to focus on how these circumstances cause us to grow spiritually as we renew our mind (James 1:2-4; Ephesians 2:15-18; Galatians 2:20). These circumstances come and go. Fifty years from now it is a history lesson. Our decisions for Christ last forever and leaves a legacy in the hearts of those we love. Colossians 2:8-10 says; “See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception …… rather than according to Christ……, and He is the head over all rule and authority.”
For a country to remain strong at its’ core, we must remain the salt and light (Matthew 5:16) and the church, the pillar of truth (1 Timothy 3:15) or there is no hope for our children (1 Peter 4:17; good to read verse 12-19.
Pray for our country and remain focused.
