Exodus 18:21
"Furthermore, you shall select out of all the people able men who fear God, men of truth, those who hate dishonest gain; and you shall place these over them as leaders of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties and of tens.
First, I need to acknowledge that God has established governments. This means that though government can grow beyond its proper role to become abusive, it is not intrinsically bad. But if the government forbids what God commands or commands what God forbids, then God’s commandments take precedence over human authority. For example, Daniel’s friends—Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego—chose to disobey King Nebuchadnezzar and face being burned alive rather than worship idols. When Nebuchadnezzar forbade his subjects to pray to anyone but himself, Daniel openly disobeyed.
At the same time, these men were among Nebuchadnezzar’s most trusted and loyal advisers. They served him honestly and faithfully despite his numerous mistakes. They were not blindly obedient but were willing to respectfully challenge him when appropriate. They did not hold grudges or plot against him, even when he personally wronged them.
Pray for our “Government Leaders”
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)
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