How can we discern God's will in political leadership today? Setting the Stage with Judges 9:22 “After Abimelech had reigned over Israel three years,” (Judges 9:22) What This Moment Teaches • Three short years of Abimelech’s rule remind us that: – God permits leaders for His purposes, even when they are flawed. – A season of leadership can be abruptly limited by divine timing, not human planning. Recognizing God’s Sovereignty in Leadership • Psalm 75:6-7: “For exaltation comes neither from east nor west… but God is Judge; He puts down one and exalts another.” • Romans 13:1: “For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.” • Key takeaway: Discerning God’s will begins with acknowledging He alone installs and removes leaders. Using Scripture as the First Filter • Isaiah 8:20: “To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to this word, they have no light of dawn.” • Evaluate policies and character against clear biblical standards (e.g., sanctity of life, justice, truthfulness). • Leaders who openly oppose God’s moral order reveal themselves as outside His approving will. Watching for the Fruit of Leadership • Matthew 7:16-20: “By their fruit you will recognize them.” – Does the leader promote righteousness and restrain evil? – Is there evidence of humility or only self-exaltation like Abimelech’s? • Galatians 5:19-23 sets contrasting works of the flesh and fruit of the Spirit that help gauge public servants. Listening to Godly Counsel • Proverbs 11:14: “Where there is no guidance, a people fall, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” • Seek input from mature believers who anchor their advice in Scripture, not slogans or party lines. Observing God’s Providential Checks • Judges 9:23-24 shows God sending a spirit of discord to expose Abimelech’s wickedness. • Modern application: – Sudden scandals, policy gridlocks, or public outcry can be divine nudges revealing unfit leadership. – Do not ignore these signs; they often confirm biblical evaluation. Practical Steps for Today 1. Saturate your mind with Scripture before political news. 2. Compare every candidate’s platform to biblical values. 3. Weigh consistent character over charismatic moments. 4. Accept God’s ultimate decision with peace, trusting His greater narrative. Living Out Discernment Even when leaders resemble Abimelech more than Deborah or David, God’s purposes advance. Staying anchored to His Word, evaluating fruit, and heeding providential signals allow believers to discern His will and respond with faithful citizenship. |
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