Amid confusion and unrest related to the situation of former President Rodrigo Duterte, let this be a sober reminder to all of us—particularly believers. Let us not fight over politics, but for what is right and pleasing in God’s sight. Four principles to keep in mind:
1.) Pray for the country
“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.” (1 Timothy 2:1–2)
Regardless of our political affinity, pray for everyone. Pray for the country’s leaders, for the justice system, for the military and police, for the local communities, for the people in general. Pray that in the midst of unrest, there will still be peace and order.
2.) Trust those whom God appointed
“Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment.” (Rom. 13:1–2)
Every governing authority, whether just or unjust, is there by the sovereign will of God. And even if a leader would be proven evil, it is the responsibility of the other duly appointed leaders to do what is right through lawful process. As individual citizens, let’s not take matters into our own hands. Let the other leaders do the work; appeal to them as much as you can. Encourage them to take lawful actions. Pray and trust God to work through the right people the right way.
3.) Let our speech and actions reflect Christ
“Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.” (James 1:19–20).
“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” (Ephesians 4:29)
Especially for us who neither personally witness what’s happening nor possess comprehensive knowledge of law, it’s best being careful speaking out. Stop. Listen. Study different sides. Observe first. We’re not God who knows and sees everything.
And even when we arrive at a clear understanding and a sound judgment on the matter, let Christ be seen in our words and actions. May it be to ultimately build up and not tear down. Above all, we’re not bearing our family’s name or some politician’s name. It is Christ’s name and glory that we bear as His disciples.
And lastly…
4.) Proclaim the law and gospel
“This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” (1 Timothy 2:3–4)
After telling Christians to pray for everyone, including our leaders, Paul directs us to what God is most concerned about. And that is our top concern too. Kingdoms rise and fall. High profile people will pass away. But the kingdom of God and the name of Christ endures forever. Sin and death are our greatest enemy, and our only hope is the forgiveness of our sins and eternal salvation through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
Even our cries for justice and development of a nation rest not in a particular person or political party. Our hope is in God and Him alone. Peace, order, and justice among our leaders and the citizens can only happen when people know God and our lives are transformed by His Word and Spirit.
So, whatever is happening right now, and could still happen, keep in mind what’s most important. Yes, be aware. Get informed. Be engaged. Don’t ignore. We and our children are also part of this world, and we must pursue justice and order in our lands.
But there are also greater realities behind and above these events around us.
God is sovereign and in control and will direct everything according to His perfect purpose. He’s the ultimate Judge who holds everyone accountable, and we can trust His justice. Let’s do our duties as countrymen or as leaders, to whatever extent and influence God entrusted us with. And at the end of the day, let’s pray for others, trust God, spread His Word, and follow Him—until Christ returns and brings us home to our better and heavenly country.
**Featured image from Inquirer.net
