The election is about to conclude, and according to all the votes counted so far, former president Donald Trump will be the president again for the next four years. The Senate and the House representatives voting are still in counting. The result of this election is not a surprise to our God. Romans 13:1 says, "Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God." The prophet Daniel said these words when he was serving God during the height of power of the Babylonian Empire, "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 (rulers) and sets up other kings (rulers). He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the scholars (Daniel 2:20-21). God can put anyone in positions, whether they are godly or ungodly. There are times when God puts ungodly people in leadership positions to humble a nation so that they will turn to Him and trust Him, and there are also times when God puts godly people in leadership positions to revive a nation. In any case, God is always at work in accomplishing His purpose and plan on this earth.
The leaders God puts in leadership positions are not perfect people, but God put them there to govern over us to protect us from evil (Romans 13:4). As a result, God wants us to submit to their authority as long as we are not compromising the truth of the Word of God (Romans 13:5). We also have an obligation to pray for them. 1 Timothy 2:1-2 says, "I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity." We have to pray for our president, senators, and house representatives. We need to pray that they will do what is right before God. We need to pray for their salvation so that they will believe in our Lord Jesus and surrender their lives to Him. Only God can change their hearts to do what is right.
As God provides leaders to govern us, we must pray for their salvation and a change of heart so that they can make decisions that please God. Lastly, we need to submit to their authority without compromising the truth of the Word of God.
Questions for application: (Think through these questions carefully, meditate on them while answering them, and let the Spirit of God speak to you.) Who puts people in leadership to govern a nation? What is my responsibility as a Christian? Why is it important to pray for the leaders that govern this nation?
Take a moment to write down all your worries today. Then, lift them up to God in prayer, surrendering them to His will and trusting in His guidance.
Prayer:
Dear Father in Heaven, I pray for President Trump as he will be the president of this country for the next four years. I pray that you will guide his decisions to do what is right before you. Give him the strength, the wisdom, and the godly motive to lead this nation. Please help me to submit to the authority of this nation without compromising your truth for your glory and honor. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
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