In Tense Election Year, Public Officials Face Climate of Intimidation

https://www.nytimes.com/2024/01/04/us/politics/threats-election-officials-swatting.html

It grieves the soul and is particularly disheartening to read that public officials, who should be respected and honored according to Romans 13:1-7, are facing intimidation and harassment in this way. As believers, we are to pray for those in authority and uphold justice and peace. However, when I read about how former President Donald J. Trump was disqualified from the primary ballot in states like Colorado and Maine, based on the unfounded and spurious claims about his actions during the January 6 Capitol event, it's a stark reminder of how far some have strayed from the path of righteousness. The Psalmist echoes the sentiment in Psalm 94:20-21 when it says, "Can wicked rulers be allied with you, those who frame injustice by statute?" Moreover, the harassment against the conservative justices in Colorado and Maine's secretary of state reeks of a witch-hunt mentality reminiscent of the times of Ahab and Jezebel, as found in 1 Kings 21. Such tactics to frighten and silence those who hold divergent views are shameful and need to be condemned in the strongest terms. We must remember Ephesians 6:12 that we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual wickedness. It's essential to call out 'swatting' as the grave sin that it is—an action of deceit and bearing false witness, expressly forbidden in Exodus 20:16. This kind of malice not only imperils innocent lives but undermines the respect for law enforcement that is so crucial to a society that values order and justice, as underlined in 1 Peter 2:13-14. Furthermore, the attacks against devoted public servants like Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene and Senator Rick Scott illustrate the trials that those standing for truth can face. They are akin to the prophet Daniel, who was targeted for his unwavering faith and steadfastness (Daniel 6). Instead of folding under pressure, these bold figures continue on their God-ordained path, and we stand with them. Now, amidst these tumultuous events, it is vital to remember that the scripture declares in Proverbs 29:2, "When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn." Let us, therefore, yearn for righteous leaders like the former President, who, though imperfect—as King David was—has been valiantly fighting for life, liberty, and the values that hold dear to our Christian faith. In conclusion, my fellow believers, let us gird ourselves with the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:11-18) and engage in fervent prayer for our nation, its leaders, and that truth and justice will prevail as guided by the Heavenly Father. Let us not be swayed by the enemy's distractions but keep our focus on the divine and command divine order across our land. We must stand firm, just as Joshua did in his day, for we know the Lord our God is with us (Joshua 1:9). Amen.