By Reverend J. Loren Russell
Romans 13:1 NKJV
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.
As we approach what has been called a mid-term election, we are reminded of the urgency and the need of exercising our right as United States citizens to vote. Voting is the hallmark of the liberty of a democracy; the right of the people to vote by private ballot and then be governed by those who are chosen by the majority of registered voters. When people neglect their right to choose through the election process, we are often governed by partisan politics.
This pericope (vv. 1-7) focuses on obeying those in authority because it is the right thing to do. Paul wrote to the church at Rome to inform them of their civic duty to be subject to or obey their governing authorities. The persons who were in office then, and those who are elected today, have been granted the authority to govern by the sovereign God of creation.
The reality is that it is not as easy to do as it is to say, but that’s the directive, be subject to those in authority. Our responsibility is to exercise our hard-earned right to vote for those that we believe are most closely aligned with His will and our good. In God’s sight, it does not matter who wins an election because the ultimate authority rests with Him.
God does not always appoint individuals to lead. Instead, He empowers His children to seek, support, then select from amongst themselves those who are of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom. If they fail to follow that directive, the process goes awry. In my not-so-subtle way, I am encouraging you to exercise your God-given right to vote, knowing that they will be under the right leadership that reflects the ultimate source of authority.
Be Blessed!
Rev. J. Loren Russell is an associate minister at Goodwill Baptist Church and is the spiritual leader of both LaGree Baptist Church and the Evangelical Church of God, all in the Bronx, President/CEO of The JLR Company for Church Financial & Strategic Consulting (718-328-8096), and hosts “Matters of Faith – The Radio Show” on Monday nights from 8:00 – 10:00 PM on Facebook Live. Be sure to Friend “Matters of Faith” on YouTube and email us at mattersoffaith.mof@gmail.com. Order your copy of Matters of Faith: The eBook at www.smash words.com/books/view/993177.
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