Being a Good Citizen, Part 2

I Chronicles 12:32 “…of the sons of Issachar who had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do….”

The sons of Issachar are famous for understanding what was going on around them. Ignorance, for them, was not bliss; they wanted wisdom. Ignorance is not bliss for us either, especially as those called to be faithful citizens.

How much do you understand about what is going on in your country, state and region? Examples:

Country: In dialoguing with others, do you know that the phrase “separation of church and state” is not in the Constitution? Do you know that its original intent in Thomas Jefferson’s letter of 1802 is the opposite of what most people think?

State: Do you know—for sure—what can and cannot be done in your state’s schools in terms of prayer, carrying or reading a Bible, and forming a Christian club? Don’t go only by what a fearful administrator might suggest.

Region: Do you know your local mayor (or Congressman or state senators, for that matter)? Do you pray for them?

You may or may not be called to political involvement. If you are, God bless you, direct you, and protect you—you’ll need all three. But if not, you have the right and responsibility to vote. Educate yourself on the issues, pray, and vote in faith before God, which is pleasing to Him (Hebrews 11:6).

God has given most of us the gift of involvement in our various layers of government. We don’t all have to become experts on politics or government, but we need to understand our times enough to be faithful stewards of our role as citizens.

Prayer: Father, you know all my responsibilities and how much time they take. Lead me to become someone who understands the times I live in enough to be a force for truth and righteousness.