Election 2008

Psalm 78:72 So he fed them according to the integrity of his heart; and guided them by the skillfulness of his hands.

This last verse of Psalm 78 is describing King David as both a man of integrity and competency. He had a good heart and governed with skill. The previous king, Saul, was as well a competent leader. He lead his troops into battle and Israel prospered during a significant portion of his reign. But he fell short in the area of integrity. On more than one occasion after receiving precise instructions, he chose to follow his own agenda rather than obeying. He was quick with excuses when confronted about his disobedience. On the other hand, David was quick to confess his wrongdoing when challenged about wrong motives and actions. He was answerable to no other human and could easily have disposed of his accuser. Impeachment was not an option. But instead David recognized and confessed his error.

So what does all this have to do with Election 2008? The bottom line is that the person needed in office must have integrity and competency. He or she does not have to be perfect, but does need to be a person that will own up to and correct mistakes made. Individually that person cannot be all that is required to successfully govern. What is needed is the wisdom and discernment required to select the right advisers - councillors that are as well people of integrity and competency. So here is what we need to do this election year:

1. Campaign and vote for the candidate whose track record speaks most of both honesty and skill.
2. Pray that the winner of the election will be a leader with the right qualities.
3. Regardless if your candidate wins or not, pray for your new leader.
4. Pray that he or she will be surrounded by councillors of integrity and competency.

1Ti 2:1-4 First of all, then, I exhort that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who will have all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.