POLITICS AND RELIGION: PART THREE

I am proud to be an American, and as I said last time, I believe our form of government is the best man can do. Unfortunately, mankind is corrupted with a sin nature, and as long as humans are involved in anything, it will be screwed up. That includes religion as well, but I will address that disaster later. Suffice it to say, anyone who reads or watches the news will attest to politician's flawed nature. I saw yesterday that the Governor of New York and a very senior congressman from there, are in danger of going to prison for corrupt behavior. Somehow, we naively expect them to be better at overcoming their human nature.

Recently, Indiana Senator Evan Bahy (D) announced that he would not seek reelection because he didn't enjoy being in the Senate. He listed many issues he had with his colleagues, and of course blamed much of his discontent on the opposition party. Isn't it funny how the behavior of Republicans displeases one that used the very same tactics when the Democrats were a minority? But I digress. His announcement was because he could see the handwriting on the wall; Democrats are going to lose many seats due to Obama's policies, which his party is obligated to support, like it or not. He conveniently made his announcement the day before the deadline to qualify to run for his seat. Because no one had time to prepare, the Governor will have to pick his replacement. It is not inconceivable that the Governor could pick him. Political suicide, in national politics has been known to occur.

Recently, Kentucky State Troopers were filmed at a cock fight. Their explanation for being there was that they were looking for a felon, and that was their priority. What I have not heard reported yet, was why those participating in the event saw no reason to run for them there hills. Perhaps they were used to them being there and saw no threat to their "fowl" behavior (pun intended). I watch a lot of crime shows on TV, and I constantly hear complaints from the police and prosecutors about how the courts "tie their hands" in dealing with criminals. I very rarely hear someone telling them that those rules are in place to prevent a repeat of past abuse. Of course, the shows may have someone bring that up, but they are portrayed as being unprincipled lawyers who would go to any length to get their client off. Thank God for Mattlock.

So, how are Christians supposed to react to a less than perfect government? You are not going to like the answer. We are to pay taxes (Matthew 22:17-21), and we are to submit (Romans 13:1-7). The only time a Christian can disobey the government God has placed over him or her, is when it requires you to go against what God tells us to do (Acts 5:28-29). The Romans passage above tells us that God is the One Who places government officials in office (and you thought you elected them). And we are not just talking about America; God empowered Rome, which would one day crucify His Son. While His intent is for leaders to rule justly, the fact that they don't is not a surprise to Him. Trust Him, it will all work out in the end. After all, He works all things for good to them that trust Him, to them that are called by His name (Romans 8:28).