Really?

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. ~Romans 13:1

Full disclosure- in the present day climate of this country and world, my flesh or my own intellectual thinking pauses at this passage of scripture.  I, and my feelings about the subject and content of discourse and disunity all around me says, “Really?”  Am I really supposed to follow or except the current leadership that I am under?  

Well, the answer is yes! Yes, because I either believe God and His word or I don’t.  I can’t just take the parts of the Bible that make me feel all warm and cozy and then neglect those that make me feel uncomfortable.  I believe God and that means I believe everything that He says.  

Therefore, I lean not to my own understanding and I trust in His.  I trust that the purpose for our leaders is ordained by God.  I trust that no matter who sits in authority that God will work it out for our good.  I have to let go and trust God with the outcome.  I have to pray for ALL of my leaders.  I have to pray that we as a nation and humanity humble ourselves before God.  I pray that we will have leaders and persons in authority that know God and honor Him.  I pray that our leaders reflect our hearts and that our hearts reflects God’s.

Today is Election Day.  God has allowed us to have a voice in the process.  May we not use it to hurt others or divide.  I pray that we look to God and trust Him and that we seek peace and reconciliation.  I pray that we stop being so tribal and be a nation of one under God.  I pray that the bitterness that has been creeping in be removed at its root. I pray that we acknowledge the pain of others and not harm our neighbors, but love.

Father, You are Sovereign and You are the authority in our lives.  May we honor You and obey your word.  In Jesus name. Amen