Psalm 94:20 Can a corrupt throne be allied with you–
one that brings on misery by its decrees?

Two governments come to mind as I read this: the Nazi government of Germany, and the current US administration. Thinking about it, I would also have to add all Islamic governments. All of these used or use the name of God while oppressing people with destructive laws. The verses following this one are a comfort, because they assure us that such governments will be destroyed, as the Nazis were. Jesus’ words come to mind: “ By their fruit you will know them.” (Matthew 7:20) The list of depredations on America’s national character by the current administration is long. They cannot pretend to be committed to the God of the Bible. The concern is how much of the nation they will manage to take down before they are eliminated.

As I wrote two days ago, most of my life I have been apolitical, and it frankly doesn’t feel good to be so emotionally involved in what is going on. I recognize that no government is perfect, but the Bible says clearly, “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.” That seems to be somewhat in opposition to today’s verse! The answer is obviously trusting obedience. I and all believers should focus first on personal integrity, on how we live our lives on a day-to-day basis, and then be willing and obedient as God directs us to act on a larger scale. The world has never known a representative democracy on the scale of the US before, and the past 250 years have been very interesting. Having US citizenship, I cannot complain that the US is not following God’s laws if I am not committed to obedience myself. If the current situation leads to widespread repentance and commitment to God, then it will prove to have been a massive blessing. I need to pray for a spirit of repentance and righteousness to fall on the nation, while trusting God to be God.

Father, You know my heart better than I do. Today I will interact with Japanese bureaucracy, and that isn’t a pleasing prospect. I pray that You would enable me to release both my immediate situation and the situation in the US into Your hands, trusting You to be Lord and walking in personal obedience in every area, for Your glory. Thank You. Praise God!