Introductory Thoughts
The character of the individual in authority affects everyone under his authority. People mourn when a nation, congregation, or family unit is ruled by one who is wicked. On the other hand, those same people would rejoice under the right authority of a righteous ruler. When Pharaoh ruled over God’s people in Egypt, their lives were made bitter with hard bondage (Exodus 1:8-14). Their days were filled with sorrow and affliction (Exodus 3:7). In contrast, when Solomon ruled over the people of God in Jerusalem, there was great rejoicing (1 Kings 1:40; 1 Kings 5:7). This truth not only applies to Israel, but to every nation, church, workplace, and family.
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children):Nehemiah was a godly governor who led Gods people in rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem. The people were happy (Nehemiah 8:9-13, Nehemiah 12:27, 43). Yet, under the rule of wicked king Nebuchadnezzar, the people lived in fear (Daniel 5:18-19).
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(For everyone): How does the nature of the leader of our country affect the people who live in this country? How would it change things if he followed the Lord?
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Name some righteous kings in the Bible. How did their authority affect the people? Name some wicked kings in the Bible. How did their authority affect the people?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask the Lord to restore righteous authority to our country.
- Ask God to protect His people from wicked authority.
Song
MY COUNTRY, ‘TIS OF THEE
