Thursday, November 6, 2008

Whichever Side Your On, We’re On This Ride Together

Well, it is almost two days after the elections. Emotions are running high and range all over the scale with a few indifferent individuals in between. Some I have heard or been around practically worship President-elect Obama. Others are scared to death of him. The majority either love him or hate him.

Whatever your political persuasion, some things are clear. One, America has come a long way to be willing to elect a Black President and seriously consider either a woman President or Vice President. I can still remember the 50s and 60s. We have a long way to go, but we have come a long way too.

Secondly, the internet has become a potent force in the political climate. Obama recognized the potential and capitalized on it. McCain and his advisors underestimated the power of the web.

Third, more and more people vote based on their feelings and media emphasis. All issues take a backseat to one's perceived need, perceived reality and feelings. Whoever does the best job of appealing to felt needs and felt reality stands the best chance of winning.

There are other things that should be clear to every Christian. If they aren't, then it is most likely because of personal bias and choice. The Scriptures make it clear that God is in control. Daniel 2:21 states, "It is He [the God of heaven]…who removes kings and establishes kings." Job 42:2 emphasizes, "I know that You [the God of Israel] can do all things, and that no purpose of Yours can be thwarted." Those Christians who are claiming that all is now lost, indicate by their words that their faith is in human government and men rather than in God. In other words, they have a faith problem. Some obviously seem to have a love problem also.

A second fact that should be clear to any true follower of Jesus Christ is that we are commanded to pray for our leaders -- that includes President Bush and President elect Obama, plus our other leaders. I Timothy 2:1 says, "I urge that entreaties, prayers and petitions and thanksgivings be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity." If you have forgotten your history, recall the Nero was in power when Paul wrote those words.

There will be days of testing ahead for President elect Obama and for every American. He will be tested and tested soon on the international level, where he is largely untried. Look for one or more major tests to come soon--from the Middle East, Russia and/or Asia. Obama will also face difficult tests on the domestic front. We need to pray for the current and next President. We also better make sure our faith is in the right place and is growing.

I am thankful that God is in control, has a plan and purpose and that I can know His peace.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Gary, I so agree with your 3:40 AM post. Especially paragraph 5. I saw so many updates on Facebook the morning after that reflected peoples' disdain for Obama, fear for our nation now and disbelief that "something like this could happen".
If it weren't so "left wing bleeding heart and liberal" to say it...I'd scream out "can't we all just get along?" :^)
Or "get a grip" whichever came to mind first.