Called to Politics
Our brethren politicians need our prayers as they strive to fulfil their calling.
We are all too familiar with the common prejudice against politicians as corrupt, self-serving and power-hungry opportunists. Whether it is the Christian West or the Islamic Middle East, the same prejudice strikes everywhere. Likewise in Malaysia where politicians are generally perceived in the negative vein.
Do honest, selfless, citizen-caring Malaysian politicians exist today? The bright news is: Yes, they do. The March 8 election offered the public the assurance, little it may be, that there are politicians who truly desire to make their communities a better place for everyone.
Among these gems are Christians who dared to enter this noble but ruthless vocation because they felt 'called'. However, there is a marked difference between politicians who happen to be Christians and Christians who have the firm conviction that God has called them to the arena of politics so that they would be salt and light to their community.
Qualities of Christian politicians
As Christians, it is our duty to uphold - whether in prayer or otherwise - our brothers and sisters who are in governing positions. But first, let's look at the qualities that are expected from Christian politicians as viewed through the Bible.
Firstly, they are God-fearing, trustworthy and non-covetous (Exodus 18:21 - "…able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness…").
Next, they are wise, understanding and respected among men (Deut. 1:13 - "Choose wise, understanding, and knowledgeable men…"). While those elected into positions of authority are automatically given the title 'Yang Berhormat', genuine respect can only be earned through integrity and diligent service before God and men.
Thirdly, they are fair, impartial and unbiased in their judgments and policies (Deut. 16:18-20).
Lastly, they are uncompromising in their relationship with God (Daniel 6). Although Ezra, Nehemiah and Daniel all held office under heathen rulers, they stood their grounds when commanded to do things against their godly heritage, such as worshipping idols or ceasing prayers.
Role of Christian Politicians
Christian politicians who know the laws of God in their hearts are to be salt and light (Matthew 5:13-16) in this institution that God has placed them.
- As salt of the earth, they are to help preserve the moral fabric of the country, stem the tide of moral decay and corruption in every stratum of society beginning from the top. They should propose and set in place administrative structures to act as checks and balances in the municipal councils, State and Federal government.
- As light of the world, they are to be a model in righteousness, godliness and humility. As appointed leaders, they should not lord over the people under them but carry out their duties with a servant heart (Mark 10:42-45).
Praying for Christian Politicians
- For God's strength and courage
They need the courage to do the right thing, though it may be unpopular with certain powerful people. For example, a former MP who spoke up against the inaccuracies in the school history curriculum was strongly opposed by some parliamentarians and subsequently threatened by people who surrounded his service centre.
- For God's protection
When Christian politicians begin to speak up concerning injustice and unrighteousness, they may receive threats of physical harm against themselves and their family members. Recently, the family of a lady politician had the scare of their life when a molotov cocktail bomb was thrown into their house. Pray also for God's angels to protect their going out and coming in (Psalm 121:7-8).
- For humility in service
The word 'minister' actually means 'servant'. Hence politicians, especially, those appointed as cabinet ministers, are servants to all. Whether they are state assemblymen who look into the welfare of their constituencies (clogged drains, traffic congestion, etc.) or members of parliament who are responsible for good governance, economic development and religious freedom, Christian politicians need to exhibit much patience and humility in carrying out their duties.
- For support from family and church
Being public servants, their work often take them away from their family. This may add strain and tension to family cohesiveness. While this is the price and sacrifice that the politicians' spouse may be willing to pay, friends and church-mates can alleviate the burden by words of encouragement, practical help and much prayer support.
- For protection against moral corruption
As Christian politicians are also susceptible to the corruption of power, pray that they will find suitable spiritual advisors to hold them accountable in both their private and public life (Prov. 4:23; 1 Tim. 4:16).
Conclusion
What makes a Christian politician different from a socialist fighting injustice, corruption and inequality? While the agenda looks similar, the Christian politician goes beyond man's temporal sufferings to the Judgment Seat of Christ where all injustice and unrighteousness will be judged.
While he fights with all that is within him against unjust governmental structures and policies, he also knows the peace of God which passes all understanding which can garrison his heart against all unrighteousness and wickedness.
Like the apostle Paul, he is an ambassador of Christ bearing the message of reconciliation, ever prepared to share the reason of the hope he has within him (2 Cor. 5:20; 1 Peter 3:15).
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