“2 Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. 4 For he is God’s servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God’s servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer.”

- Romans 13:2-4 (New International Version, bold mine)

Wow, did you realize there is a promise in scripture that our rulers are servant’s of God whose purpose is to do us good and bring punishment on people who do evil?

That’s a far cry from what we hear all the time in the popular media, isn’t it?

Yet, God is in control, 110% of the time. He has a plan, and it is working to bring good to those who love Him and are called to His purpose:

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” – Romans 8:28, NIV (bold mine)

Of course, this doesn’t mean that we should just blindly accept everything our leaders do. Instead, we must accept that God has a purpose for putting leaders into place, and we should trust that the Lord knows exactly what He is doing when He does… even when leaders are seemingly in opposition to what God commands.

There is a peace to be had when we submit to the will of God in this way, as we learn to trust in Him more fully.

So, trust God enough to honor your elected leaders according to the laws of your country.

And, instead of criticizing them, let’s pray for them, that God grants them wisdom and a willing heart to listen to His call.