Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – August 8, 2015
By me [wisdom] kings reign and rulers make laws that are just; by me princes govern, and all nobles who rule on earth. Proverbs 8:15–16
The wisdom of God overshadows the best and brightest thinking of man. This is why our ancestors accessed the Almighty for knowledge and understanding in crafting our constitution. Its remarkable effectiveness is contingent on faith: faith in God, faith in government, and faith in its citizens. Indeed, politicians who plead with Providence for wisdom will become the wiser. Rulers who recognize their authority is from God will rule for God.
There is a humble ambition that escorts the most effective statesman into public service, as political pride is exchanged for humble wisdom. Those who rule wisely have faith ruling their conscience and character. Political wisdom is a prerequisite for those public servants who govern in alignment with the principles of Providence on behalf of the people. These wise rulers are able to rest in peace in the middle of a storm.
“For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer” (Romans 13:4).
A culture thrown into economic chaos especially needs principled men and women to step up, sacrifice, and make hard decisions. Wisdom in the middle of extreme uncertainty requires painful prescriptions to prevent further panic. Wise politicians face disastrous consequences and determine what is best for the whole in light of the long term. Pray for political leaders to look beyond themselves and short-term relief into the perspective and principles of God found in Holy Scripture.
Indeed, political wisdom prays for intervention and understanding from the Almighty. Perhaps during desperate days a filibuster of faith is first needed; so our leaders start by looking and listening to the Lord. Just laws follow political wisdom, which does what is right as Christ defines right. Wise politicians keep their hands of faithfulness on the Bible’s principles and their hearts submitted under the Lord’s authority. Presidents honor Him by never forgetting their inaugural sacred vow, “So help me God.”
“Blessed be the Lord your God who delighted in you to set you on the throne of Israel; because the Lord loved Israel forever, therefore He made you king, to do justice and righteousness” (1 Kings 10:9 nasb).
Prayer: Heavenly Father lead our political leaders into your truth and wisdom.
Application: How can I facilitate political wisdom with those public servants in my circle of influence?
Related Readings: Psalm 148:11–13; Daniel 2:21–47; Romans 13:1; Revelation 19:11–16
Post/Tweet this today: Pray political leaders look beyond short-term solutions to the long-term principles of God. #politicalwisdom #wisdomhunters
Additional Resource: 4 minute music video- Jeremy Camp: There Will Be a Day
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