Spirit-Led Citizens

When I hear yet another example of the chicanery that enriches many of our politicians, seemingly without consequence; learn of “businesses” that exist to facilitate adulteries and the sexual abuse of minors; and watch news stories about random shootings of law officers, military personnel, and first responders (these deeds followed by celebrations in the streets), I can’t help but think of the prophet Isaiah’s warning, “Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil…” (Is. 5:20a). Tragically, when individuals and nations become so deceived they deny the existence of God and His absolute truth, then such Bible-based warnings are perceived as foolishness, or worse, hated restraints.

Christians, who have the Word and the Holy Spirit living within, need not be deceived. But are we not often distracted from our God-ordered priorities? In this country we are yet free to organize, protest, seek justice under the law, and cast our votes. We do well to exercise our civic rights; but, in order to do so with His guiding Spirit, we are first and foremost commanded to:

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks. (1 Thes. 5:16-18);

Be still and know that He is God. (Ps. 46:10);

Resist fear. (Is. 41:10 and Ps. 37:8);

Love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. (Matt. 5:44);

Leave vengeance in God’s hands. (Rom. 12:19);

On some have compassion…others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire. (Jude: 22,23);

Forego our own understanding and bow to the Spirit’s control. (Prov. 3:5-6).

Perhaps God is allowing events to bring us under His sovereignty to a degree we have never known. If we track with Him and do what He says, when He says, we have this encouragement: “The people who know their God shall be strong, and carry out great exploits.” (Daniel 11:32b). Lord, please help us keep our minds on this promise!