A New President
Roger Rush
Last month our nation inaugurated a new president, Barack Hussein Obama. He holds views on abortion, stem cell research, and some other moral issues that I do not share. I did not vote for him, but it had nothing to do with the color of his skin or his political affiliation. For me it was a matter of conscience, and, frankly, a choice between the lesser of two evils.
Contrary to what some might say, I did not campaign for or endorse any candidate for president in the election. I never have, and I do not intend ever to do so. That is simply not appropriate for a gospel preacher, and my stance has nothing to do with any IRS regulations regarding our tax-exempt status. If I believed God’s word required me to address such matters, I would unhesitatingly do so! At the same time, I will always speak plainly regarding moral issues and will urge Christians to take their Christianity with them into the polling booth on Election Day.
The election is over. Barack Obama is president. As I have already said, I did not vote for him, but he won. That makes him my president. As a Christian, I will be praying for him and the success of his presidency every day. As a Christian, I cannot do otherwise. Paul wrote to Timothy: “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior” (1 Timothy 2:1-4).
Civil government is God ordained, and Christians are to be law-abiding citizens (Romans 13:1-7). Peter specifically commanded: “Be subject for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether it be to the emperor as supreme, or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good. For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people. Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God. Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor” (1 Peter 2:13-17).
As Christians, we are to respect our leaders. We are to pay our taxes (Matthew 22:21). In addition, we are to obey the laws of the land at all times, unless those laws are in conflict with Divine law. Then we must obey God rather than men (Acts 5:29).
Our nation faces some real challenges in the days ahead. As Christians, we should all be praying for our President and other leaders. Pray for their physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Pray that they might act wisely as they govern. Pray that they will lead us in the direction our Creator would have us go. Pray that “we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.” Also, pray that the gospel might flourish here and around our globe. –534 6th St., Marietta, OH 45750. (740) 373-3240. rogerrush@juno.com