It can be discouraging to vote and find out what you were supporting did not come to be. Even as we pray for God’s will to be done and the outcome appears so much different, it’s important we keep our chin up and not lose heart. God has given us free will—all of us.
Looking now at the story of Sodom and Gomorrah in Genesis chapter 18-19, I read that Abraham asked God not to destroy the city if he could find any within that were righteous. He went from requesting God spare the city on the account of 50 righteous down to 10. God said that He would spare the city for the sake of those righteous, though it does not appear there were even 10! Angels helped Lot and his family to escape from the city to Zoar and God rained brimstone and fire on Sodom and Gomorrah destroying everything. Though God hears our prayers, He still allows free will of others. In this case, though God still destroyed the city because of sin and perversion, He protected Lot and his family.
Even when justice does not seem to happen under leaderships or with certain bond measures, just know that it doesn’t mean God’s not still ultimately in control. He allows those who are in power to be there.
- “Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God.” (Romans 13:1-2)
Do you recall when the children of Israel were griping about being hungry for bread and God rained manna from heaven in Exodus chapter 16? God gave them what they wanted. The saying, “Be careful what you wish for…” comes to mind as I think about those who hoarded their manna overnight after God told them not to, and it spoiled. America has too griped and complained and have gotten what they’ve asked for: the removal of God from our schools, abortions on demand, wayward politicians, and their tax dollars supporting things that are not pleasing to God… The children of Israel’s complaining and not trusting God turned an eleven day journey into 40 years of wondering! I mention this because in our nation that God has given us, rather than trusting and turning toward God, so many would rather gripe, complain and rebel against His will. I believe for this reason God has withheld further abundance of blessing in our nation. I personally believe He has blessed our nation for the sake of those who love Him.
- “If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” (2 Chronicles 7:14)
The Bible gives us examples from history of God’s character and we can see He is just and merciful. He took care of Lot and his family, He made good on His word to the children of Israel–even when they were acting like spoiled children, and He’s given us the formula for a blessed nation. Cities were destroyed and blessing was delayed because of people’s lack of obedience and faith. There is hope for America if we’ll seek God.
- “Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings, and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.” (1 Timothy 2:1-2)
Don’t forget to pray for those in leadership whether you agree with them or not.
Scripture references are quoted from the NKJV.