God's servants

We are currently going through concerning times with political issues as a nation. There is a great amount of division affecting all levels of government. Every day seems to bring fresh news of problems and scandals. But this is nothing new. Every generation has faced troubling times and seasons with what is happening with government and politics.

The Bible gives us both comfort and wisdom as we observe what happens around us in politics. We should never wring our hands in despair but instead always trust in God’s purposes and plans.

How does the Bible give us hope as we witness what takes place within our nation and the world for that matter? I offer three truths:

1. There is no position of authority in the world that God has not allowed to be in place.

Every single authority that exists, or has ever existed, has been established by the Lord. We read in the Bible, “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.”--“This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.” Romans 13:1, 6-7 (NIV)

Every leader, every person in authority, anyone who serves in government…is God’s servant. This is true whether they recognize God’s sovereignty, or not. There is no power or authority that exists apart from God’s rule.

2. God is not responsible for evil or corruption in politics but in His wisdom sometimes allows it for His saving purposes in the world.

Even through God establishes all positions of authority, God is not to be blamed for evil or corruption. Corruption from leaders is grievous to God. Yet, we must trust in God’s wisdom and goodness to carry out His saving purposes.

When we look to the Bible, we see descriptions of corrupt kings and entire nations that are all accountable to God for how power is exercised and their recognition of God’s sovereignty, or lack thereof. Every position of authority is accountable to the Lord.

3. We can trust that God is in control at all time and within all circumstances.

This is our hope when facing the disturbing events that we see…God is in control of all circumstances. We can rest in the truth of God’s Word that tells of God’s ultimate authority and God’s infinite wisdom in directing world events to accomplish His saving plans. To be consumed with worry is the result of not fully trusting God’s leading. How wonderful that we can have confidence and assurance in the Lord’s purposes.