the government’s job

1 I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, 2 for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. 3 This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

To hear some Christians talk, you'd think that it's the government's responsibility to advance righteousness and to be the steward, upholder, promoter, and protector of biblical truth and values. Actually, Christians in the US—where I live—have experienced an unusual season of history. We've had a government that, although led for the most part by people who are not authentically Christian, was built on the fundamental tenets of a biblical heritage. But that has now changed. In fact, it's helpful to remember that most Christians through the ages have lived under hostile, oppressive, pagan systems. And quite frankly, Christians have often done their best in those environments.

God never assigned government the task of upholding scriptural truth. Scripture assigns government the responsibilities of safety, stability, peace, and justice (Romans 13:1-5; 1 Timothy 2:2). We give the wrong impression of the biblical mandate for government when we feel betrayed because it is no longer an advocate for truth and righteousness. The advancement and proclamation of godly values is assigned to our lives, our homes, and our churches. We don't have the luxury of expecting that government will help us in the process.

Early Christians, during times of ruthless political regimes, took the responsibility to uphold their faith under great cultural pressure. They, not their governments, were the light of the world.

It was to these Christians that Paul delineated our responsibilities toward government. We are to honor those in authority over us, pray for them, and pay our taxes. Thankfully, Scripture doesn't say that we have to vote for them; but since they are ultimately placed in authority by God, we are commanded to give them due respect (Romans 13:1-7). This biblical perspective recognizes God's sovereign oversight, realigns our attitudes, and releases us to get on with the business of being the torchbearers he intends us to be. —Joe Stowell www.rbc.org

seeking: Father, how has reflecting on your sovereignty challenged my thinking today? How have you encouraged me with your presence?

responding: Who is in authority over me? How often do I pray for him or her? What is keeping me from praying more?

Father, help me to trust you with the authorities you place over me. I want to serve you with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength.

following: God rules, and uses the people he chooses to rule others.

our journey