Stress Test Devotional April 28
April 28, 2024
We are also encouraged to pray specifically for those in authority. The scriptures have a nuanced and sophisticated view of political power, insisting on the one hand, that God licenses authorities to restrain evil by “bearing the sword” of punishment. On the other hand, we learn that early authorities will be influenced by dark figures and may be illegitimate and abusive. Rome was a source or order in Paul’s day, a necessary though imperfect authority. Later, and we see this reflected in Revelation, emperors began to persecute the church, and Rome become “Babylon,” a discredited evil force subject to judgement.
All of this implies that politics is hard, subject to good and evil influence and that political figures need our prayers and sometimes our honest criticism.
Do you have a positive or negative view of government?
FAMILY TIME—
Pray for a public official.
