Isaiah 47:6 I was angry with my people
    and desecrated my inheritance;
I gave them into your hand,
    and you showed them no mercy.
Even on the aged
    you laid a very heavy yoke.

This verse is obviously why this passage came up in readings on mercy, but beyond that, it has an important cautionary note. God does use human beings to punish evildoers, but those doing the punishing need to remember mercy. That is very pertinent in America right now, where it looks like the Democrat Party will be largely wiped out in the coming election. Those involved in their machinations, including media companies, are in rather a panic at the moment, as well they should be, but the “Trumpians” need to remember the principle expressed here. There is every evidence that Republicans will gain control of the White House, the House, and the Senate. They are indeed to use that power to enact righteous laws and correct much that is wrong in the nation today, but they aren’t to be vindictive. That doesn’t mean that those who have actively broken existing laws aren’t to be prosecuted, but witch hunts should be out of the question. There are indeed whole departments of government that need to be abolished, but those who gain power in November need both God’s wisdom and restraint. It is far more productive to lead people to repentance than simply to punish them. Motive will be key here, and Christians need to pray, speak, and act as God directs, or they might find themselves in the place of the “daughter of Babylon” mentioned here.

I never expected to become so political, but the events of recent years have certainly grabbed my attention. Living in Japan, these things might seem irrelevant to me, but I am very aware of America’s influence in the world. Since childhood I have wondered why Japan seemed to copy America’s bad points instead of her good ones! I have already discovered that politics can be very divisive, sometimes painfully so. I need God’s wisdom in when to bring the issues up and when to let them lie. Even Japanese often have strong opinions about American politics! At the same time, I must remember that I am called to be salt and light, and if no one speaks out for truth, then lies will predominate. This might seem unrelated to my calling as a pastor and missionary, but the policies espoused by politicians are often closely related to matters of faith and righteousness. As Paul said, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” (Romans 12:18) I’m not to go picking fights, but I am not to draw back from speaking God’s truth.

Father, thank You for this clear Word. Being so wrapped up in politics is very unfamiliar territory! Help me keep my focus first and foremost on You, so that even “good” things will not distract me from being Your faithful servant, for Your glory. Thank You. Praise God!