Hand-Picked By God

Romans 13:1 Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.

A few days ago mid-term elections were held that resulted in the largest shift in political power in decades. I was fascinated to note the next day on the social networking site, Facebook, that friends on both ends of the political spectrum were calling on God with either praise or petition as a result. As much as it amuses me to visualize it, I'm fairly certain the King of kings is not a card-carrying member of the Republican, Democrat or newly formed Tea party. However in His sovereignty and according to His purposes alone, He not only allows but establishes every authority on earth.

This morning I am reading 1 Timothy 2. As he opens this chapter, he advises Timothy to present requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for kings and those in authority. Frequently I have heard individuals beseeching others to pray for governmental officials but cannot recall a single time that I've been asked to give thanks for them.

Can you imagine how the fabric of our faith communities would change if the morning after every election we joined together in thanksgiving regardless of the outcome? In truth, this should be our reaction. Our leaders are hand-picked by God. Seeing God's work should always result in praise by His people.

Jesus, Your ways and thoughts are higher than mine. Help me keep my focus squarely on You not only the morning after an election but every morning. You raise up every leader and every leader You raise is according to Your plans and purpose. Thank you, Jesus, for every one of them.