Politics is in the air. We are subjected to hype, hyperbole, attack ads, mud slinging, deceit, character assassination, lies, boasting, misrepresentation and confusion. If our system of elections is the best example of the democratic process in action, it also reveals the consequences of Satan’s deceit in the Garden of Eden.
As citizens of heaven who lo for the appearing of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, we live on this earth, and in this nation until He comes. We are concerned about the nation in which we live. We want to let our light shine as our Father exhorts us, and thus be an instrument for blessing in our nation. The light of the Christian shines as a reflection of our gracious God when we believe in Him, trust in Him and live according to His will.
Our Lord did not institute a particular form of government. He did institute civil authority (Romans 13) for our benefit, and has told us to be subject to it. Jesus Himself lived on earth during the time of the corrupt Roman government. When the Pharisees sought to discredit Him, they asked Him about paying taxes. Jesus said, “Render therefore unto Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and unto God the things that are God’s” (Matthew. 22:21). The apostles also lived under the burden of a corrupt civil government. Neither Jesus nor the apostles counseled overthrow of the government (1 Peter 2:13-17).
In our country we speak of government of the people, by the people, and for the people. Who then is the government? It is we. We elect from among our own those who represent us. Luther said that nations sometimes get the kind of government they deserve. If those in authority are less than we expect or desire, we should first of all lo at ourselves. We should examine the demands we place on them. It is not an easy task to serve in authority when one is being pressured by people with different moral, social, and political agendas. We expect disagreement over programs. Nevertheless, we have the right to expect decency, morality, and truth. But ask yourself again: Do we as citizens measure up to the decency, morality, and truth we expect of those whom we elect? How do we act when we are in a place of authority?
Repent and pray. Pray for forgiveness and wisdom for yourself and your family. When you go to the polls remember to pray for our nation and for those elected to serve. And remember, the Lord makes all things work out to the benefit of His children on earth. Remember further, that righteousness above all else reaps blessing for this nation; therefore live righteously before God. Live your faith here while you wait the end of faith in heaven. Above all, pray for God’s grace that you be kept strong in faith in Christ Jesus, that when life in this vale of tears is ended you may enter into the eternal home. Yes. Pray and continue in the Word!