A WEEK WITH PURPOSE

This week the United States will mourn the passing of President Jimmy Carter. Today I am not here to talk about his actions as president, but rather call all Christians to remember that our leadership (no matter the nation you live in) is human and in need of our prayers. There are some who act more Biblically than others, while some will face God’s wrath and eternal judgment. However, that should not stop us from doing what God has called us as born again believers to do, which is pray for our nations leaders. 1 Timothy 2:1-4 “I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. 2 Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity. 3 This is good and pleases God our Savior, 4 who wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth.” Many this week will be talking about the funeral, take the moment to be purposeful and see where the conversation leads. If you see the opportunity to talk about the Gospel do so! Likewise pray for the leadership of your nation. We as believers need to give grace to our leaders and see that they are still human and in need of a savior. Praying for them is more powerful than you might know.

This does not mean that God will not examine leadership according to what they do and how they act! Psalms 47:8 “God reigns over the nations; God sits on His holy throne.” Some might laugh at this, but there is a coming day when this will be done literally and quite clearly, even in the face of the critic. For God promises that He will rule with an iron scepter. Nevertheless, now is the time of grace and an opportunity for us to be purposeful in others lives and talk about the things of God. Pray for the leadership of your nation and pray they become saved and/or grow in their sanctification. Only Jesus is perfect, all others need the Church to be praying for their salvation and sanctification. Use this week’s events to proclaim the good news of Jesus and pray for those chosen by God to rule your nation.

Hold until relieved, our Blessed Hope is coming,

JL