[Pray]
for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable
life. 1 Timothy 2:2
Paul lived in the Roman Empire under the rule of the cruel and ruthless Nero. Yet he saw
the possibility of better times ahead. If he hadn't, he wouldn't have exhorted the
first-century Christians to pray for "a quiet and peaceable life" (1 Timothy
2:2).
If Paul were living today, I don't think he would be pleased when Christians paint a
totally dark picture of the future. Although some governments do repress their citizens,
think of what's happened. Since the Berlin Wall came down, new winds of freedom have been
blowing in the world. And even though immorality and broken homes are still a terrible
blight, many people seem to be returning to the values of marital fidelity.
I believe that the only real hope for the world is the return of Jesus Christ. I don't
know when the Lord will come, but while I wait I'll continue witnessing for Him and
praying for a great revival. I'll be asking the Lord to lead the nations into paths of
peace and prosperity. I'll be doing what I can to help people who are struggling in dire
poverty. I'll vote for leaders who uphold moral values.
We must not withdraw from the world but do what we can to make it a better place to live.
God is in control. We can't lose. Let's be optimistic!
-HVL
Keep me ever watching, Master,
That no fear my faith may shake;
Working, praying, hoping, longing,
Till the joyful morn shall break.
-Dimmock
The future is as bright as the promises of God.