Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – November 20, 2020
Then the commander said, “I had to pay a big price for my citizenship.” “But I was born a citizen,” Paul replied. Those who were about to question him withdrew immediately. The commander himself was alarmed when he realized that he had put Paul, a Roman citizen, in chains. Acts 22:28-29
Citizenship in a free country means something, especially for Christian citizens. Citizens who are followers of Christ have a platform to live out the teachings of Jesus. A responsible Christian citizen modestly models their values and principles that are based on the Bible. Beliefs lived out are truly beliefs, while those unapplied are not real beliefs.
“You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness” (Ephesians 4:22-24).
This applies to our political beliefs as Christian citizens. We can endorse an independent political party, but we’re not autonomous from the Almighty’s influence. Paul was persecuted for his faith, but he still spoke the truth with humble boldness. If we say we believe in the sanctity of life, then we elect congressmen or women who do the same.
If we say we believe in a government that spends less and balances a budget, then we elect leaders who will make hard choices and implement fiscally conservative changes. If we say we believe in free enterprise, then we elect statesmen and women who support that system, even if it requires businesses to fail. Responsible Christian citizens care more.
Because our citizenship is in heaven, we always keep an eye on eternity’s expectations, while we deal with earthly issues. It’s not creating an entitlement-motivated government that becomes the savior of the masses. On the contrary, it’s a political system that ensures the freedoms and liberties of its citizens are not threatened and removed. A diverse people can only be truly unified around common values and principles espoused by God.
“For through him [Jesus] we both have access to the Father by one Spirit. Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God’s people and members of God’s household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone” (Ephesians 2:18-20).
Prayer
Heavenly Father, lead me to be an influence for you as a citizen of this world, while recognizing my primary citizenship resides in your Kingdom, in Jesus’ name, amen.
Application
Am I a responsible Christian citizen who expresses my convictions at the voting booth?
Related Reading
Ecclesiastes 9:14-16; Acts 23:1-11; Ephesians 2:11-13; Titus 3:1
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