September 24, 2020
For full passage click: Psalm 146:1-4 … “Do not put your trust in princes, in mortals, in whom there is no help. When their breath departs, they return to the earth; on that very day their plans perish.” vss. 3-4
The Psalmist knew nothing of elections or democracy. He lived in a monarchy and the king ran the country like it was his private estate, taxing as much as the people could bear to fund the varied expenses of the kingdom. His heirs were the princes and they did what they could to consolidate their respective positions by cultivating favor among the masses. The Psalmist trusted none of them! All of them would die and their promises and plans always died with them. We live in different times and have become accustomed to a democratic political process, one that, in theory, gives power to the people through an electoral process. But even though there are differences, we’d be well advised to pay attention to the Psalmist’s words. We’re fools if we believe that our salvation lies in the hands of politicians. They all make promises, sometimes with good intentions, but always with a view toward maintaining power and control. Every few years we are caught up in their frenzied campaigning and posturing for votes. It’s easy to begin to think that one or another of these mostly wealthy folks will be our ‘messiah’ and lead us to unprecedented peace and prosperity. We’re wise to maintain a high degree of skepticism! While it is important to vote, it’s far more important to cultivate our relationship with God and continually offer praises to the Lord!
Thought for the Day: Why do people fall for the promises of politicians?
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