Political Words

Then [Jesus] said to them, “Give therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.”                              Matthew 22:21 (WEB)

Politics has become an increasingly dirty business. Is it possible for a Christian to be in any way related to the methods or tactics of managing local, state, or national government without becoming soiled? If my email inbox is any indication, I would say “No”! Offering an opinion on a policy is “giving to Caesar”. To attack a person personally, is “giving to me” instead of God.

[Jesus said,]“For out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks. The good man out of his good treasure brings out good things, and the evil man out of his evil treasure brings out evil things. I tell you that every idle word that men speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.”           Matthew 12:34-37 (WEB, my emphasis)

How can I, as a disciple of Jesus, justify name-calling and snide jokes? How can I publicly call into question someone’s relationship with God? Is Jesus not the Judge? I once heard a teacher suggest that on Judgment Day every word I had ever said or written would scroll across God’s marquee for everyone in the cloud of witnesses to see. Just having those words illuminated and Jesus’ eyes meet mine makes me hang my head and beg forgiveness today! What am I doing when I forward emails with a “This is good! Read this!” but speaking my agreement to everything that is written! Would I not be better time spent and operating with Holy Fear if I prayed for God’s wisdom for us all? Do I trust the power of the Holy Spirit? I am not part of the silent majority! I am declaring my allegiance and belief in true power through Jesus Christ!

I exhort therefore, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and givings of thanks, be made for all men: for kings and all who are in high places; that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior; who desires all people to be saved and come to full knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4 (WEB, my emphasis)

Let us pray today with renewed fervor and confidence in the power of our Lord and Savior. Let us pray first for ourselves that we would be directed in our prayers in a way that pleases God. May we stand on His promises and believe in His power. And then let us pray for ALL in authority on both sides of the so-called political aisles that they may ask and receive the wisdom of God, speaking and acting in Holy Fear of the Only One to whom they must answer an account of their lives. To God be the Glory!