10 January 2019
This last week we saw the formation of another congress down in the U.S. The congress is re-seated every two years after mid-term elections and presidential elections. This new congress is concerning in many ways. While the U.S. Senate has not changed much, and the Republicans still hold a majority there the House of Representatives is now decidedly in the hands of the Democrats. This change in the lower house could indicate a shift in morals and values in U.S. legislation. But, why would the political situation in the U.S. be of any consequence to us? Well, no man is an island unto himself and neither is a country. The unique situation between Canada and the United States and how intertwined our economies and cultures are promises that anything that happens south of the border will affect us. While we should be alert, we should not be worried. Let me explain:
Romans 13:1 ESV
Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.
The reaction of the Christian is to sit peacefully in the fact that our God is in control of everything. He is the one who placed every Representative, Senator, President, Prime Minister, MP, MPP, and Premier in both countries. Our God is also in control of every government on this planet regardless of whether or not they acknowledge Him. To go one further, look at 1 Timothy 2
1 Timothy 2:1-4 ESV
First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, (2) for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. (3) This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, (4) who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
Not only should we be confident in our God, we should take every opportunity to pray for wisdom and for salvation for those who lead us.
Remember, this works for those down south as much as it works for us. We need to be in the habit of praying for our governing authorities. God has a plan for them as much as He has a plan for us!
Pastor Jonathan Welch
