Read: Proverbs 21:1
The king’s heart is in the hand of the LORD; he directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases.
Hey all you Republicans out there, relax, the president’s on a short leash. And for all you Democrats, you need to chill out, too. For those of you who still believe it’s all George Bush’s fault, or for anyone who’s convinced President Obama’s the Antichrist, lighten up! If you’re thinking the man in the Oval Office is calling the shots, think again:
God’s in charge!
I love how Daniel 2:20-21 reminds us that all of the political convulsing we do, especially in an election cycle like this, is really nothing more than a tempest in a teapot when stacked up against the plans of the Almighty:
“Praise the name of God forever and ever, for he has all wisdom and power. He controls the course of world events; he removes kings and sets up other kings.”
Now I’m not saying that politics is unimportant or that the upcoming elections won’t have consequences. The truth is, the party given power to rule greatly affects the cultural-moral-spiritual direction of America and the man in the Oval Office has great bearing on both the outward strength and the inner fortitude of our nation. It matters, and as believers, we are obligated to be well informed and actively engaged in our politic process. But can I remind you again of this one truth that trumps all your concerns?
God’s in control!
God allows politicians to be elected, he keeps the president on a short leash, and at the end of the day, whether rulers rule well or not, God will accomplish his purposes. He is in charge—and in control. As someone has correctly said, history is really His story. It always had been, it is right now, it shall be tomorrow.
God rules!
I hope that gives you great comfort, and I hope it will allow you to be a little more sane and kingdom-focused as the politics of this election year heat up well beyond the point of sanity.
“God governs in the affairs of man. And if a sparrow cannot fall to the ground without his notice, is it probable that an empire can rise without His aid? We have been assured in the Sacred Writings that except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it. I firmly believe this. I also believe that, without His concurring aid, we shall succeed in this political building no better than the builders of Babel” ~Benjamin Franklin, Constitutional Convention of 1787
Let me say it one more time just in case you missed it:
God reigns!
Your assignment, should you choose to accept it:
Read I Timothy 2:1-4,
“I urge 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. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.”
Now, like him or not, pray for President Obama every day this week! It will please your Heavenly Father!
Pursuing theories of shadow government and conspiracy, it's refreshing to be reminded that our God reigns. Whether the intent of these forces is good or evil, it doesn't really matter, except where it influences our relationship to Him.
Thanks for the reminder.
Right on, Jim. In the larger scheme, it matters not if Republicans rule or Democrats decide–God wants us to use every opportunity and every political season to point people to the real Ruler, the Great Decider himself, God Almighty!