Power Behind the Thrones

The mess we (America and the rest of the world) are in is not because of what so many of us may think. 

It's not because of politics being Red or Blue or people being black or white. Where we are is where we've always been headed - toward the conclusion of a war that's been raging ever since Lucifer fell.

For a long time - since 2008 when Obama was elected to 2024 when Trump won a second election - I believed in the Red/Blue, black/white reasons. First, I was elated at having a first black man in the White House - a building constructed in large part by black slaves. Then I was deflated as I realized that Obama was just another politician and not a "magical Negro" who was going to be America's hero. Then I was resigned to the fact that politics is a game and all the players in power are a gang. They may not all be friends, but they are a gang that protects its members.

When Christian nationalism surged here in the U.S., I began to come to my senses. I remembered that I am a Christian and our Lord's kingdom is not here on this earth. America is nothing but one in a long line of national powers beguiled by its own current standing. 

How many other powerful "empires" came before and are no more? Rome is the most memorable to Americans, but there were others. The Persians and Germans, and - here's the biggie - Babylon. I've forgotten much of the history I was taught in school, so I had to refresh my memory of the largest powerhouses of politics and royalty.  

I am ashamed to admit that it took me too long to really come to my full senses and see what is so clear: America is no better than her people and leaders. And we are currently a hot mess. But, as a Christian, that should never have been a surprise to me.

Understand that when I say I am a "Christian", I'm not speaking of a denomination or political alliance. I am saying that I believe Jesus died for me. I am saying that I believe what the Holy Bible teaches. I am saying the I am a Christian - a follower of Christ, the Son of God. 

SOURCE

What is happening now - in America and the rest of the world - is not new. It is shocking to those of us living through a time when our government is in turmoil. I am only just now becoming jaded to having a sitting president behave as ours does.

I believe what the Bible teaches about "power behind the throne". Every person operates under the influence of something. Christians should operate under the influence of the Holy Spirit and live as Jesus instructs us. Everyone believes something and their beliefs dictate their doings.

Anyone after earthly power, wealth, fame, and glory (and willing to do anything for that) is operating under an influence. That influence is the power behind their "throne". There is a present ruler of this world - and it's not Christ - and there are people who serve him, whether or not they realize it yet.

The other night I heard part of a "Christian" podcast. The speaker was saying which political leader he supports and explained the reason. He said he wanted to support a "man of God" who supports Israel and good, moral causes. Let's break that down...

As Christians, we don't put out faith in men (see how the Apostle Peter shows this), we worship God only. Men are fallible - some are so fallible that they should come with flashing warning lights! 

As Christians, we are to support Israel and pray for the peace of Jerusalem. We are even told that we will be blessed or cursed based on how we treat Israel. 

However... If you check the linked resources above, you will see that it speaks on separating people from politics and discusses issues of right and wrong. So, we are not to blindly support people, principles or politics. And that is where some modern Christians get things twisted.

I will say that it's a good idea (in my opinion) to do pay more attention to what the Bible has to say and less about what our politicians post and speak on. Instead of being frustrated with those who have different political beliefs, we should focus on praying for people to find Christ. We should pray for Christ's return.

There's that advice "Don't watch what they say, watch what they do". When I say "they", I mean your fellow Christians. Are they doing Christ-like things? Are they praying? Are they trying to spread the gospel? 

As for the people in power, try to guess the power behind their "thrones". How are they using their power? Who are they helping with that power? 

We have to be so careful not to be so impressed (or repulsed, angered, surprised, etc.) by anything that we take our eyes off of God.

Peace

--Free

P.S.: I am planning to check out the source for the Cultural/Bible image. It looks very interesting. 

 

The Reason for All the Crime & Hate

 While scanning the news this morning, a few headlines caught my attention:

1. Woman Calmly Reassures TV Reporter Amidst Gunfire

2. Doctor in Indiana Disciplined for Performing Abortion on 10-Year-Old

3. Brian Laundrie's Mother Promised Him Shovel and Garbage Bag

4. Body-Cam Footage Shows Ex-Police Officers Laughing at Man's Custody Death

These headlines made me reflect on the diminishing value we seem to place on human life. It appears that we have forgotten the preciousness and sacredness of every life, regardless of race or any other factor.

In today's America, it often feels like we expect crime and violence to be a part of our lives. Some places that were once peaceful and safe are now plagued by crime. I remember growing up in a tranquil Anchorage, Alaska, but when I left eight years ago, fear of crime played a role in my decision. Crime seemed to have spread throughout the city, erasing any sense of safety. This situation is not unique to Anchorage; it's a problem in many parts of the United States.

When we consider the teachings of love and reverence in the Bible, it becomes clear that disregarding them has caused our hearts to grow cold and hardened. We have become prideful and adopted an attitude of self-importance.

Recently, during a Bible study, I came across Proverbs 6:16-19, which highlights seven things the Lord hates. Let's reflect on these in light of our current social issues:

1. Haughty eyes

2. A lying tongue

3. Hands that shed innocent blood

4. A heart that devises wicked plans

5. Feet that run rapidly to evil

6. A false witness who utters lies

7. One who spreads strife among brothers

Now, read the news and see if we are not in a state of rebellion. I remember a time when most people would be ashamed to engage in any of these seven detestable acts.

In the realm of politics, we have witnessed a decline in honor and integrity. Politicians can now openly support the killing of unborn children and endorse sinful lifestyles without significant consequences. It is disheartening to see individuals in public positions with such viewpoints.

Shame and sin exist in every political party. Former and current presidents have applauded individuals living openly sinful lives, praising their "courage." One former president even boasted that he could commit murder on a busy street without losing voters. And sadly, he was proven right. This same individual once mocked a disabled reporter before his supporters.

Our current president has appointed transgender individuals to positions in the White House, and it has become the norm for openly gay and lesbian citizens to run for political office.

What is happening to our society? Should we be surprised? Not if we believe the Bible. Reflecting on the list from Proverbs, I fear we are headed down a troubling path:

"Therefore God gave them over in the lusts of their hearts to impurity, so that their bodies would be dishonored among them. For they exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.

For this reason, God gave them over to degrading passions; for their women exchanged the natural function for that which is unnatural, and in the same way also the men abandoned the natural function of the woman and burned in their desire toward one another, men with men committing indecent acts and receiving in their own persons the due penalty of their error.

And just as they did not see fit to acknowledge God any longer, God gave them over to a depraved mind, to do those things which are not proper." (Romans 1:24-28, NASB) [my bold italics]

While I'm not focusing on any specific sin in this post, as we are all sinners, I would like to ask any proud member of the LGBTQ community who claims salvation to consider the bolded and italicized portion of the Bible passage.

For the rest of us sinners, how will we face God when the time comes? Will we humbly stand before Him clothed in the blood of Jesus, or will we approach Him with unchecked pride and sin?

Peace

--Free