Pastor's Corner - November 11th, 2022

As of this morning, the State of Oregon has a new Governor, Ms. Tina Kotek. 

While she is likely not the candidate that any of us hoped would be elected to the office, given some of the trends that we have seen in the State of Oregon over the past several years, and her campaign pledges to continue many of those trends; however, she is the candidate that has been selected by the voters of the State of Oregon.

Scripture illustrates to us as Christians, the honor and respect we are to provide to those in political offices. They have been raised to the office to fulfill God's purpose, [Exodus 9:16, Proverbs 21:1] Despite vehemently disagreeing with someone's policies, we need to take care and recognize this reality when it comes to our attitude and the things that we might speak about that individual. 

The Apostle Peter, in 1st Peter 2:13-17 reminds us of the importance of this concept. 

Therefore submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake, whether to the king as supreme, or to governors, as to those who are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and for the praise of those who do good. For this is the will of God, that by doing good you may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men--as free, yet not using liberty as a cloak for vice, but as bondservants of God. Honor all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king.

God is, and remains in control. 

Despite the concerns we might have about where things may go in the State of Oregon, we can take heart in knowing that it whatever takes place will be in accordance with His will.

I for one am glad the midterm elections are past. 

It means that for a time, (at least until the Presidential Campaigns begin in earnest) I won't continue to get advertisements in the mail, won't have to see the attack ads full of mudslinging and allegations of impropriety from all sides.

What becomes so clear during these election years is just how different the way of God is, and the Kingdom of God will be when compared with man's deeply flawed systems of governance. Just once, it would be interesting to see a political ad that says, "My opponent is actually a decent human being. They love their family, they work hard to do what is right, but we just happen to disagree as to what that is."  It would certainly be refreshing. 

The Apostle Paul wrote to Timothy, in the midst of one of the most challenging eras that fell upon the early Church, the instructions we see recorded in 1st Timothy 2:1-2.

Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.

I hope that you will join me in praying for Ms. Kotek.

That she might yield herself to God, that He would turn her heart to repentance, and that she might govern justly, with righteousness and an outward love for all of those she serves as Governor. That she might enact policies that will discourage lawlessness, enable the people of Oregon to flourish, to in turn build their own strong relationships with God, and to live a quiet and peaceable life while maintaining their reverence and godliness. 

All things are possible with God. 

Have a happy Sabbath!

With Love,
Ben