Lent Day 25 - Earthly Authorities: Submit and Pray

"Everyone must submit 

himself to the governing

authorities, for there is no 

authority except that which

God has established.  

The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. For he is God's servant to do you good...Give everyone what you own him: If you own taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor."  Romans 13:1-4a, 7.

2012 - Election Year

If you're like most people you are already sick to death of political ads, debates, phone calls and fliers, and we still have 8 months to go before election day. 

The purpose of this post is simple. There is no political viewpoint espoused here. There is only this: God established governments and authorities on earth because he knew we needed them. The world is too big and there are too many people for all of us to do our own thing. That would be anarchy, total chaos, and God is a God of order. 

This is not to say that governments and/or politicians are good and perfect. They're not. They're people. Enough said. They are people with extraordinary responsibility. Some serve well and with honor, others most certainly do not. 

As Christians if we are not praying about the upcoming election and for those already in service we are missing a perfect opportunity to create change. We are also abdicating our responsibility to cover them in pray. Their job is a terrible, awesome one and no one should be in a position of power anywhere without prayer cover - lots of it!

There are good Christians on both - or all - sides of the political arena and good people must agree to disagree at times. We are called to pray for our leaders and to hold them accountable. It's easy to criticize and complain. We all do it. If we're doing that without praying for them - shame on us!

Let this scripture and this post remind you today to pray regularly for our leaders and the upcoming election. God is sovereign. He is in complete control, and no matter who is elected his plan will not be derailed. 

Let's remember that we see only a small part of the picture right now. God knows what he is doing. Let's not forget Whom we serve. Take a moment right now and pray for our country and it's leaders and the election. If you're not registered to vote, register today. Participate as much as you can, and vote as God leads you. 

It's an awesome responsibility. It's also a wonderful privilege to vote and be able to speak our minds. Speak your concerns to God, ask for his guidance and wisdom as you consider political candidates. Most of all, thank him that we are not at the mercy of elected officials and governments. We are safe in his hands. We are directed by his Spirit for his purpose and for his glory. 

Educate yourself, listen, learn and pray. Then vote on election day. 

Let's be praying together!