The God Over Government

“…And to God what is God’s.”
Matthew 22:21 (NIV)

Do you know that you have a prophetic role in your community?

Throughout Scripture and history, God’s people have played a prophetic role in the lives of political leaders. The prophet Nathan spoke to King David and confronted his choices. A prophet named Elijah spoke to King Ahab and challenged his ethics. A prophetess named Deborah confronted the cowardice of a leader named Barak. 

Jesus spoke something revolutionary in His conversation about politics in Matthew 22:15-21. In verse 21 He said, “So give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” After voting in an election, you wake up the next day to this truth: God is still on the throne and there is Kingdom work to do.

What is your work? You may not see yourself as a prophet, but you have a role to speak up about God’s Word and His ways. Instead of doubting your influence, you can use your platform by giving God your full allegiance and serving your community as an upstanding citizen. 

This work looks like faithfulness to your family, diligence at work, and service in your community. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you serve God by serving others with wisdom, shining His light through you to all of those around you. 

Once the votes have been cast, you can have hope that God’s plan remains unchanged: He’s building a Kingdom over all governments through you. Actively get involved with your civic leadership. Respectfully suggest priorities, ask questions about decisions, and encourage your leaders to lead with integrity. Let them know you will be praying for them. 

When you worship God with full allegiance, and treat those in government with godly respect, you can be God’s messenger. There are a lot of things the government can do, but the most important thing we need done only God can do. And He is working His plan through you. 

Prayer: Thank You, God, that Psalm 24:1 declares, “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.” Help me be less concerned about who is on the Right and who is on the Left and more concerned about all that You desire to make right. Let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream in our country and across the earth. In Jesus’ mighty Name, Amen.