GOD GOVERNMENT AND YOU

1 Tim. 2:1-2

“I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”

I am kind of a political junkie, but you know what?  Sometimes I just get to the point where I’ve had all the politics I can stand.  Sometimes I just have to turn off the radio talk shows and try to get my focus back on things of faith.  Because, when you get right down to it, no matter how you vote or how others vote, Christians have to move forward with a Christ-honoring attitude.  I want to share a few things from the Scripture, just so you know what kind of attitude that is.

First of all, God is the supreme Lord and King over all.  He has sovereignly ordained governments and governors to be under him, but over us.  He has done this for His glory and for our good.  He has also granted them the power and authority to lead and to enforce the rule of law.  READ Rom. 13:1-4, and 1 Peter 2:13-14.  We need to move forward with faith in the wisdom and purposes of God.

Second, the Scripture is clear that civil leaders are not to assume authority over the administration of the Word, the ministries of the church, or any other matters of faith.  CONSIDER Matt. 16:19.  It is, however, their responsibility to protect the church and its leaders.  CONSIDER Ps. 105:12-15.  We need to move forward with a renewed zeal for God’s Word and for the cause of Christ.

Third, it is our responsibility as Christians to pray for our government and for those who have been granted authority in that government.  READ 1 Tim. 2:1-3.  It is also our responsibility to pay our taxes.  READ Matt. 22:17-21 and Rom. 13:7. 

The key to having a godly nation with a godly government is really not political, it is spiritual.  The movement of God’s Holy Spirit is not determined by government edicts.  He is, however, responsive to the prayers of His people.  We need to move forward with humbleness, with prayer, and with repentance.  Don’t forget God’s promise: ”If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land”  (2 Chron. 7:14).

--- Pastor Keith Andrews