3 Nov, 2010
In God We Trust
Ahh, the elections are OVER! For some of you you're giving a sigh of relief, thankful that you don't have to watch another politically charged commercial (at least for a while), or pick up the phone only to hear the automated voice of a stranger on the other line attempting to convince you to vote a certain way. Of course, you also may be celebrating because the person/party you voted for has come out victorious! You're excited about the possibilities and change that may be on the horizon. Then there are those of you who are highly disappointed. You're crushed that things did not go the way you think they should; promises have been broken in elections past and, after this one, you're left feeling defeated and hopeless. I'm sure there are a lot of mixed feelings this morning as you read this. Even as I sit here and write this, I don't know the results of the election, but I do know one thing: no matter what changes do or do not take place in the Senate, the House, or in your local city, our God is in control and He has already chosen and elected those leaders, with purpose.
Romans 13:1
Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about submitting to authority?
As Christians, we tend to have no problem with following, supporting, and submitting to authority when it's someone with whom we agree, somebody who claims to share our spiritual, moral, and ethical belief system. When it comes to those who do not share our values, however, we really struggle to support and submit to their authority, and we justify ourselves by claiming allegiance to Christ. Today's scripture really challenges that line of thinking, in fact it blows it to pieces. When Paul spoke these words, it was to a group of Christians who were tempted to criticize and rebel against the government and leadership they'd been placed under. Sound familiar? God used Paul to remind the church at Rome that He was in control, that no man would be elected unless He allowed it, and even ordained it. Afterall, God has been known to use unlikely candidates to further His Kingdom and will. Although it may be hard (from our limited view) to understand what God is doing and why, we are called to submit not only to His authority, but also to the authority and order of government (which God put in place), trusting and believing that God is Sovereign. He has a plan, and He is always in control.
How can I connect today's God's Story scripture to my life?
Consider your attitude toward our government, the officials that have been put in place, and the authority they have been given over our country. Have you been critical, harsh, or rebellious (outwardly or inwardly)? What does the attitude you have toward those in leadership say about your trust in God? Is it showing others how much you trust in His Sovereignty, or is it screaming doubt, fear, and uncertainty about what God is allowing to happen? Don't let God and your faith be an excuse to rebel against that which He has put in place. Pray and ask God to help you have the right attitude and perspective when it comes to the authority of government and the individuals that have been placed in authority over you.
How can I connect today's story, God's Story scripture, and my story to others?
As you talk to others today (and any day) about the future of our country, the leadership that has been elected into office, or the way our government is run, it's okay to disagree and express concern, but use it also as a time to share about your faith in the Sovereignty of God. Help those you're around see your trust in God, firsthand, by seeing how you respect the authority and order of government that He has put into place, even (and especially) when you disagree. Respect the position, and submit to the laws and authority, because you know that by doing so, you are submitting to the authority of Christ.
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