A Debt of Prayer

Governments (state, city, county and federal) get a lot of criticism. Yes, much of it is merited. We've all got an opinion about government and our leaders. Just about every state is in dire financial trouble like the federal government. In South Carolina we've got our hands full. If we are going to rise above our current state of affairs it's going to take a lot of wisdom, bipartisan agreement and courage to make some unpopular decisions. These don't come easy.

Criticizing the government without digging in to do our part is like complaining about the weeds in the yard, but not lifting a finger to do anything about them. I'm not so naive to believe we are all going to agree on everything. However, I'm not so young that I can't remember days when our leaders rolled up their sleeves, set aside political rhetoric, made concessions and hashed out legislation that served the people for the better.

Christ-followers do Scripture and our Savior a huge disservice when we talk about the government, spread rumors and join the negative voice. James has strong words in this regard:

James 1:26
26 If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person's religion is worthless.

Scripture counsels us to pray for those in authority over us:

• 1 Timothy 2:1 First of all, then, 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.
• Romans 13:1-4
  Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. 2 Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Would you have no fear of the one who is in authority? Then do what is good, and you will receive his approval, 4 for he is God's servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword in vain. For he is the servant of God, an avenger who carries out God's wrath on the wrongdoer.

You and I share the responsibility to pray for our leaders regardless of their party affiliation, whether we voted for them, or like them. It's time the church took the lead in showing the way. I'm not big on church sponsored political rallies (both parties use them) because it takes the focus off the Gospel and puts the emphasis on humanity, which is deeply flawed. But I am a strong advocate of praying for our leaders, especially those with whom I disagree.

The next time you are at your hair cutter, the hardware store, coffee shop, or break room and the conversation is a negative take on government try holding your tongue and simply pray for those in leadership. I promise you will feel better and I know that prayers offered in faith are heard!