We're making Mountains out of Molehills
Social media is hard for me to digest these days. There are so many arguments between donkeys and elephants, fear mongers and conspiracy theorists, and two followers of Christ, I've heard it said that. "Opinions are like butt cracks, everyone has one. " This is so evident today. Everyone has an opinion about everything, especially about those who are in authority over out nation. I wonder if anyone has stopped to think about what God's Word says about these people, how we are to treat them and the policies they put into place.
Believe it or not, He does have an opinion of this topic, and it is found in Romans 13. Verse one of the passage says, "Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God." Our President, Governors, and our County and City officials have been established by God for this time and the Bible says in the next verse that, Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves." Those are some pretty strong words.
The early church at Rome didn't understand why they had to continue to Roman laws and pay Roman taxes now that they were a part of the New Kingdom of Heaven established by Christ. They found it foolish and often rebelled against the human authorities over them. Paul is reminds them that doing these things will help them find favor in the eyes of those in authority, would protect them punishment, and possibly open an opportunity for the gospel to be heard. We are called to to act differently than the world, not take on their likeness. I believe this is why Timothy urges us to, "Pray for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all goodness and holiness." (1 Tim. 2-2)
Do you know what this says to me, the issue of masks or no mask shouldn't be an issue. Truth is, I hate wearing them, and most of the time I leave my vehicle without them and have to walk back to my vehicle after I have already made to the front door of the establishment I want to go into. I don't like the mandate, but God has placed an earthly authority and government over me that says I have to wear one. So, I will wear my mask to glorify God honor those in authority. Do I agree with those fear mongers that want to mail ballots for this years election? Nope. I think it is the dumbest thing I have ever heard and believe that the results of this years election will be held up in court for years. But if this is what the authorities decide to do, I'll vote from the comfort of my home and trust the Lord with the results like I always do.
I guess what I'm trying to say is this. We are making mountains out of mole hills. God is the one in charge of all that is taking place on earth anyway. He has supreme authority, and trusting in the leaders He has established and following their direction ultimately shows that I trust in Him. I will not rebel. Instead I will do what I am told to do, no matter how ridiculous until He ells me not to. He's in charge and none of this is sweat off my back.