He is God's servant for your good

For Thursday, March 23, 2006
Proverbs 16:15

In the light of a king's face there is life,
and his favor is like the clouds that bring the spring rain.

The counterpart to the previous verse (16:14) is that a King's favor opens up new vistas of growth, opportunity, and blessing. Thus, the citizen should act in ways that meet with the king's approval.

The king judges justly granting new life to those oppressed by others.

The king orders the kingdom, providing structure and infrastructure to the benefit of the citizens.

The king rewards and praises those who serve him faithfully and diligently.

The Apostle Paul tells us not just to avoid the wrath of the rulers, but to "do what is good, and you will receive his approval, for he is God's servant for your good" (Romans 13:3b-4a).

One way in which we can do good for our rulers is to pray for them.

One pastor of my acquaintance spends a large portion of his time meeting with various officials in his local government. He doesn't come to protest their decisions, or to beg for favors, but he asks them how can he pray for them. This has opened many a door. These leaders feel the burden of their task, and the offer of help in sharing that burden has lead to many opportunities for better understanding.

First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior (1 Tim 2:1-3)