Grace and Peace

Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (1 Thessalonians 5:18 ESV)

Paul urges us to have a grateful heart no matter our circumstances.  In so doing, life’s circumstances do not control our attitude; rather our attitude, focused on an all-powerful God, supersedes our circumstances and produces a demeanor which brings glory to God, joy to others, and peace to our hearts.  It is not always easy to practice, but it is always God’s plan for us.

Anyway, here is a partial list of the things I’m thankful for today:  salvation (and all that it means), Rebecca (the love of my life and my closest friend), Joshua, Sarah and Benjamin (three children which bless my life), the faith family at Enon Chapel (the most forgiving and long suffering church around), and the mind and heart to be thankful for all of these things and more.  Thank you, God!

The United States of America have elected their 44th president this week.  Thus begins another peaceful transfer of power from one administration to another.  In light of and conjunction with this governmental process, what should citizen Christians do?

From “render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s” (Matthew 22:21) to “let every person be subject to the governing authorities for there is no authority except from God” (Romans 13:1), Scripture reminds believers of the responsibilities of their earthly citizenship.  One of those responsibilities and privileges we should all gladly exercise for our newly elected leaders (federal, state, and local) is prayer.  Paul reminded Timothy (and us):

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, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. (1 Timothy 2:1-4 English Standard Version)