My thoughts for September: Deciding the next US president

My thoughts for the coming month: 

The Bible speaks very clearly about the relationship between the believer and the government. We are to obey governmental authorities, and the government is to treat us justly and fairly. Even when the government does not live up to its role, we are still to live up to ours. 

Americans are heading for an election where they will decide the 45th President.  One person wrote the following comment on my blog back in July "I strongly believe America won't make it through her (Hilary Clinton) presidency if she gets elected".  Yes, America will make it through the next presidency whether that be Clinton or Trump — why, because God is IN CONTROL and HE will determine the outcome not matter what we do — we may not like it, but it isn't our will. Sometimes God places us in situations that we don't like or agree with which can result in much distress—including governments who do not share the same beliefs as ourselves. It is in these situations that we MUST fully trust in God for His strength, guidances, wisdom and protection and know that through all things, all is possible. 

We don't live in China, or Russia, Iran, Iraq, Syria, North Korea — there are many places in the world that are nightmares, the USA and Australia are not one of them. Whilst you may not agree with Clinton or Trump, in reality we have nothing to complain about. Of course governments can do things we don't like and they can make our lives uncomfortable — but always think back to the Jews during Hitler or the hundred and thousands currently trapped in Syria, starving and alone and put our troubles in to perspective. 

All governments stray (some worse than others) and behave in a way that is contrary to God (i.e. legalising gay marriage and abortions), nevertheless we are still to live in obedience (1 Peter 2:13-19 below) — "And He said to them, “Whose image and inscription is this?”They said to Him, “Caesar’s.” And He said to them, “Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are Gods" (Matthew 22:20-21)

So the message is — do not be afraid of the outcome of this election. Trust in the Lord in all things and all will be ok. This is a lesson of faith. Remember, God’s plans and purposes are fixed, and His will is inviolable. What He has purposed, He will bring to pass, and no government can thwart His will. We must grasp the fact that our government cannot save us, even those who confess to being Christian. Only God can. 

Politicians are NOT the saviour of the world even if they try and convince us they are.

The salvation for all mankind has been manifested in Jesus Christ. God knew that our world needed saving long before any national government was ever founded. He demonstrated to the world that redemption could not be accomplished through the power of man, his economic strength, his military might, or his politics. Peace of mind, contentment, hope and joy—and the salvation of mankind—is accomplished only through His work of faith, love, and grace. 

Do not fear, God IS IN CONTROL.

Bible verses for the coming month

 Therefore submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake, whether to the king as supreme, or to governors, as to those who are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and for the praise of those who do good. For this is the will of God, that by doing good you may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men— as free, yet not using liberty as a cloak for vice, but as bondservants of God. Honor all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king.  Servants, be submissive to your masters with all fear, not only to the good and gentle, but also to the harsh. For this is commendable, if because of conscience toward God one endures grief, suffering wrongfully. (1 Peter 2:13-19)

Quote of month

People are weary of politicians who make promises they are either unwilling or unable to keep. Society longs for statesmen but it gets politicians. Statesmen are leaders who uphold what is right regardless of the popularity of the position. Statesmen speak out to achieve good for their people, not to win votes. Statesmen promote the general good rather than regional or personal self-interest. Henry T. Blackaby

Hymn of month

Peace, perfect peace by Edward H. Bickersteth

Peace, perfect peace, in this dark world of sin?

The blood of Jesus whispers peace within.

Peace, perfect peace, by thronging duties pressed?

To do the will of Jesus, this is rest.

Peace, perfect peace, with sorrows surging round?

On Jesus’ bosom naught but calm is found.

Peace, perfect peace, with loved ones far away?

In Jesus’ keeping we are safe, and they.

Peace, perfect peace, our future all unknown?

Jesus we know, and He is on the throne.

Peace, perfect peace, death shadowing us and ours?

Jesus has vanquished death and all its powers.

It is enough: earth’s struggles soon shall cease,

And Jesus call us to Heaven’s perfect peace.