Romans 13:1-7 says, “Let every soul be subject to the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whoever therefore resists the power, resists the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Will you then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and you shall have praise of the same: For he is the minister of God to you for good. But if you do that which is evil, be afraid; for he bears not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath on him that does evil. Why you must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. For for this cause pay you tribute also: for they are God’s ministers, attending continually on this very thing. Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor.”
And in 1 Timothy 2:1-4 we read, “I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior; who will have all men to be saved, and to come to the knowledge of the truth.”
Elections are upon us in many countries, including the U.S.A. and P.N.G. Most of the time this means name-calling, mud-slinging, dirt digging, heated debates, promises, and more and that’s just between us and our friends! Don’t get me wrong! There is much that is important to know about the candidates and much to be learned from watching them, from seeing what past experience they have, from understanding their perspectives and opinions. But often this disintegrates into complaining about one or another of them or of the government in general. As elections roll on around, let us be in prayer for those in authority and for those being chosen for those positions. It is an important time in many countries and a lot can happen. But don’t count God out of it!