There are very few things with which I agree with President Obama. In my opinion, his views are harmful to our nation in terms of military preparedness, the social culture, the economy and the general defense of the nation. However, having said that, the verse just quoted is a command that I am to pray for him and all others in authority over me. By the use of the word "kings" it is clear that Paul has in mind governmental leaders and not just leaders in the church. What does this mean? It is clear to me that I have no right to complain or criticize the president or other political individuals who agree with him in Congress unless I pray regularly for him and for them. So, I have begun praying that our Lord will protect the president and his wife and daughters, and shield them from all harm. However, on the other hand, I also pray according to Proverbs 21:1 that God will direct the president and all individuals in Congress regardless of political party affiliation. That verse says, "The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD, asthe rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will." In other words, I ask the Lord to intervene and change the president's mind if he is making a flawed decision but to affirm him if he is making a wise decision.
Likewise, those of you who identify yourselves as Christians and hold political views that are in agreement with the president are under the same command to pray for those political figures who oppose him and with whom you strongly disagree. Before you can fairly make critical statements of criticism or condemnation of the president's opponents, you must ask yourself this question....."have I prayed for them?"
I have made my position very clear on this blog and other places of communication such as lecterns and pulpits how strongly I believe in freedom of speech as well as freedom of expression. As Americans, we should feel free to make statements of our opinions, regardless how offensive or obnoxious they may be to others. However, those of us who are believers march through life under the orders of the King of kings who requires that we obey His commandments, and one of those commands is that we pray for "kings and all who have authority," and ALL includes prayers for both sides of the aisle, be they Democrats or be they Republicans
As a believer, you need to truly put into practice what you say with your lips. The hope of America lies not in political parties, lobbying groups, presidents, senators, representatives or jurists. Since only God has the power to bring a fresh revival or a final ruin upon our country, don't you think it's time to obey His direct command and pray for our national leaders......whether we like it or not?
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