The Emperor

What does the Bible say about elections? Not much, I've found out. Do you realize how often in history a country has had the privilege of voting for a leader? Not often. (Understand, I'm not really a history buff, but I do remember a few things from school.) So it is a privilege. I've been thinking on this quite a bit and doing some research in the Bible and here's a passage I found quite interesting. It's taken from I Peter 2:13-17.

13Be submissive to every human institution and authority for the sake of the Lord, whether it be to the emperor as supreme,

14Or to governors as sent by him to bring vengeance (punishment, justice) to those who do wrong and to encourage those who do good service.

15For it is God's will and intention that by doing right [your good and honest lives] should silence (muzzle, gag) the ignorant charges and ill-informed criticisms of foolish persons.

16[Live] as free people, [yet] without employing your freedom as a pretext for wickedness; but [live at all times] as servants of God.

17Show respect for all men [treat them honorably]. Love the brotherhood (the Christian fraternity of which Christ is the Head). Reverence God. Honor the emperor.

Honor the Emperor. Wow! We may all need to do a history study on the Roman Emperor. From what I remember, he was not a godly man. Do you realize how few government leaders in history have been godly? Yet God tells us to honor them.

So where does that leave us in American government....when we have an opportunity to vote? PRAY. Hold the candidates up against the Word of God. And then honor.

Here's something that gives me great hope: Isaiah 9:6

"For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given,
and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."