Subjection to Authorities

13 Let every person be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except from God, and those that exist are appointed by God. ² Therefore whoever resists the authority resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment. ³ Rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil works. Do you wish to have no fear of the authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from him, ⁴ for he is the servant of God for your good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword in vain, for he is the servant of God, an avenger to execute wrath upon him who practices evil. ⁵ So it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for the sake of conscience.-Romans 13:1-5 (MEV)

Of all the elections in the United States last week, the most talked about and dreaded has been the presidential one. Never before have two very unpopular candidates been on the ballot, leaving little-to-no choice but to vote for one or forsake the right God has given you and many have died defending. I can understand why so many have referred to it as a ‘hold you nose’ experience when at the ballot box. Believe me, I get it. Personally, my vote was based on my desire to see conservative justices appointed to the Supreme Court and also to do what I could to protect the rights of unborn children. It was not based on some great love for a candidate.

There are many people who are clearly very upset about the outcome of the election. I would hope that those who are Christians will heed the words above and be as supportive as is their obligation to the incoming administration and pray for its success rather than its failure. I would say that regardless of which of the two major candidates won.

We are so fortunate to live in a democratic republic and be granted the right every 2 years to vote for those in congress — and every 4 to determine the occupant of the White House. Let’s remember that sometimes that privilege doesn’t seem so wonderful when a majority of those partaking have a different point of view than we do and elect someone we don’t want. When that happens, hopefully we can remain grateful and make every effort to support the person ‘in power.’ After all, it’s not really them that are wielding any power — it is God. Let us be eternally grateful for that fact.