Monday, July 4, 2011
1 Timothy 2:1-2 Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.
THANKFUL FOR GOVERNMENT?
Do you grumble and complain about the red light that stalls you on your way to work? Are you angry at the police officer who pulls you over for speeding? Do you grudgingly pay your taxes? Most of the time we view the government and authorities as hindrances to our everyday existence.
Yet those same police officers protect us from criminals and keep our streets as safe as possible. While it is certain that many of our tax dollars are wasted, there is a portion that goes to not only the police, but also the military which is actively working to protect us from those who wish to destroy us.
If you are an American, then today you are no doubt celebrating Independence Day in some fashion. We have been truly blessed in our nation. However, no matter what nation you belong to, you are encouraged by God to give thanks for your government. 1 Timothy 2:1-2: "Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence."
Though there is imperfection in all governments, the stability that some governments provide enables Christians to worship without interference. Pray for that quiet and peaceable life in your nation and others, so that everywhere Christians may without impediment praise the Savior who has won them back from sin by His blood, and that many more may be brought into His fold.
