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This was written on the day after an election that is called a “blue wave”. In other words, there is the possibility of massive changes in the way our elected government governs. Notice the word “elected” in the previous sentence. This is the government elected by the majority of those voting. The mindset and desire of those governing now appear to have radically changed. We watched as those who wrapped themselves in a socialist mindset win in places that would have been impossible even 10 years ago. We hear anti-Israel rhetoric coming from those now in power. We watched as the influence of a once popular president seems to have dwindled to hurting rather than helping.

 

I’m once again hearing the age-old questions when things don’t go our way: “How could God allow this? What can God do now? Where was God?” The answers are quite simple. God gave the people of America a choice and they chose. Who says God hands are now tied. And the last one is simple. God is still on His throne directing this world on His path, as He is heading toward a time He has appointed when He will place all things completely under the feet of Jesus. Psalm 110:1 NCV, 1 The Lord said to my Lord, “Sit by me at my right side until I put your enemies under your control.”

 

Until that time, be of good cheer. Proverbs 21:1 NCV, “1 The Lord can control a king’s mind as he controls a river; he can direct it as he pleases.” Yes, it can get messy. Yes, it can seem like everything is out of control. No, it is not always pleasant, but God is still good, in control, and loves His children.

 

We have a habit of placing our eyes on people rather than God. If we just had the right president, congress, or judges. If the people just cared more for their Nation than their pocketbook (which is really hard to do when the pocketbook is empty) and who says they don’t just because they voted differently.

 

Since Scripture tells us God controls the king this must mean God can work through them as well as others. God used Egypt when growing a people to return and occupy a land He promised Abraham. It was King Cyrus of Persia that God touched and allowed Israel to return to their homelands along with funds to build up the walls, just as He prophesized 60 years before. It was Rome that established a one world language that allowed the Gospel of Jesus to be understood throughout their vast conquered lands. It was Rome that provided roads to every major city in their empire that were safe, maintained, and mostly secure. This allowed the Gospel of Jesus to travel quickly with limited hinderances. 

 

Christians can sometimes forget this world is not our home. As the old hymn states, “I’m just a passing through”. The Bible teaches that believers live in a fallen and ungodly world, yet are called to remain distinct, faithful, and set apart for God. We have been given the assignment by Jesus to be ambassadors for Him and His kingdom (2 Cor. 5:20). This assignment is to bring glory to God in all we think, say, and do regardless of life’s circumstances that surround us. 1st Corinthians 10:31-32 NIV, “31 So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. 32 Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God”. Sometimes that glory is seen brighter when things are the bleakest around us. It is easier to identify.

 

So I encourage you to not be depressed or full of anxiety but full of faith and hope looking forward to how God will use your circumstances today for His glory. Lift up your eyes to the heavens and walk in renewed assurance, knowing the true king sits on His throne high above all others. As the old hymn writer stated, “Turn your eyes upon Jesus. Look full, in his wonderful face. And the things of earth will grow strangely dim. In the light of his glory and grace.” 

 

Randy Harwood, Pastor, Spokane First Baptist Church