The discussion among Christians these days often centers around the wickedness of the times in this country. The fact of its existence cannot be denied. Any departure from God is evil (Heb. 3:12), and will usually grow worse and worse without correction. Evil exists in high places (Eph. 6:12). The question is, can a child of God have real peace with godliness in evil times?
Fear of the Lord and loving evil will not work. It is one or the other (Prov. 8:12-13). Arrogant pride leads men, women, boys and girls in the evil way. To enjoy the promise of God, one must “hate evil.” Perhaps one reason many Christians are unsatisfied is that they want to play around with some evil which Jesus said can’t be done (Luke 16:13). The peace of God comes when one fears the Lord and hates evil.
Peace comes when Christians accept God’s control of all things. He controls all things whether one accepts it or not, but acceptance of God’s sovereignty will help to bring peace. Kings and leaders of this world are given by God as He chooses (Dan. 4:17). Their kingdoms can only be established by righteousness (Prov. 16:12). King Solomon observed: “Righteous lips are the delight of kings, and they love him who speaks right” (Prov. 16:13). So, even wicked kings appreciate the benefit of righteousness when it affects them! The place of righteousness is very important in the world. Though often not appreciated the righteous play an important role in sustaining the world and God’s mercy. Accepting the sovereignty of God along with our responsibility to be the salt of the earth will help to bring peace.
“Wise kings sift out the wicked” (Prov. 20:26) and that of course is the desire of the righteous. Removing wickedness will establish kings (25:5), a fact seemingly lost on most. The Christian can play a powerful part in this process. Only the Christian has the power to talk to God. In times of wickedness pray for justice and find peace in knowing that the living God will take care of it.
Don’t be ashamed of your righteousness. It is righteousness that exalts a nation (Prov. 14:34). If righteousness is removed from a nation, then that nation is no better than any other. Many boast of the unique power and standing of the United States of America, and she has been a light to the world through many years. But remove the thread of righteousness as many want to do today, and she will be no different than all the other nations on the scrap heap of history. Remember, laws are made for the lawless (I Tim. 1:9-10), and wickedness flourishes without a speedy trial (Ecc. 8:11).
Pray for the President and all in authority, “that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty” (I Tim. 2:2), then live a life of peace with godliness.
-David Hill, President of Tennessee Bible College
