I understand the sense of loss that many believers are feeling in the current political and cultural climate in our country. We love America and we appreciate our freedom, especially to worship. When leaders seem to disrespect that heritage and evil runs rampant, we are rocked back on our heels. Naturally questions are asked, “how did it come to this”, “what is the problem and how do we correct it?” There are some musings that we will dare not mutter, “have we failed”?
I think the venomous attacks and jokes about, “I’ll pray, but only for another to take his place” come from a wounded heart. But that reality begs the question, why are our hearts wounded? Is it possible that we have taken our eyes off of Jesus and held our country in more affection then our savior? Clearly not every Christian who feels dismayed is responding in hatred, so let us simply pause and see what voices we are listening to and who speaks for us.
Summing up Rush Limbaugh and Sarah Pallin’s claim that President Obama is deliberately weakening our country, Michael Medved says,
“Regardless of the questionable pop psychology of this analysis, as a political strategy it qualifies as almost perfectly imbecilic. Republicans already face a formidable challenge in convincing a closely divided electorate that the president pursues wrong-headed policies. They will never succeed in arguing that those initiatives have been cunningly and purposefully designed to wound the republic. In Mr. Obama's case, it's particularly unhelpful to focus on alleged bad intentions and rotten character when every survey shows more favorable views of his personality than his policies.” (In a Wall Street Journal opinion piece, click here for link.)
Regardless of one’s view of the politics of the matter, regardless of one’s understanding of the patriotic thing to do; it reminded me of what ought to be the Christian response:
“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. For there is one God and one mediator between God and human beings, Christ Jesus, himself human, who gave himself as a ransom for all people. This has now been witnessed to at the proper time. And for this purpose I was appointed a herald and an apostle—I am telling the truth, I am not lying—and a true and faithful teacher of the Gentiles. Therefore I want the men everywhere to pray, lifting up holy hands without anger or disputing.” 1 Timothy 2.1-8
I wonder if a Christian who does hate the president will confess their sin of not trusting the sovereignty of God by holding onto their anger (Psalm 37.8,9 & Philippians 4.5,6). Maybe we should allow the Holy Spirit to search our hearts in this matter (Psalm 139. 23). Maybe, in our desire to ‘save’ the country we love we can start with such a confession (2 Chronicles 7.14 ). Maybe our speaking us should start here, in the throne room of God Almighty. Maybe then, we can humbly work to make changes from a ‘fear of the Lord’ perspective, recognizing His love and faithfulness and in chargeness (Isaiah 40.15,23-26).
