Written by: Errol Naidoo
Article source: familypolicyinstitute.com
I received an unexpected response to my article entitled, “When Governments Fail, God is Faithful – Keep Praying, Keep Standing.” There appears to be growing acknowledgement that despite our best human efforts, the change we desperately want to see is only possible through faith in God, responding in obedience to His Word and fervent, heartfelt prayer.
I am grateful for the many commendable initiatives across the country that inform, encourage and equip believers to work for Godly transformation in South Africa. But our efforts, noble as they are, cannot accomplish what only God can – in accordance with His perfect Will.
The paragraph that resonated with so many was this, “It may not always look like it but God is at work in South Africa. I thank God for every prayer initiative in the country. However, Christians who trust in the power of prayer must adopt the daily habit of praying for everyone in authority. Keep praying, keep standing. God is listening.”
Believers messaged me from across the country and even as far as the US to indicate their agreement with this sentiment. In other words, there is a clear concensus that God is at work in South Africa but that believers must co-operate with Him by consistently interceding for the nation, and in particular, faithfully praying for guidance and wisdom for those in authority.
When one considers everything happening in our country which includes rampant corruption, the looting of public funds, destruction of vital institutions and gross maladministration in state departments – praying for our political leaders is probably the last thing on our minds.
But this is the wisdom of God and not man. You and I may not understand everything happening in the world and our country today, why God allows the unrighteousness and chaos and why the wicked seemingly appear to be getting away with “murder.”
But God works (miraculously) through our obedience. God commands His people to pray for all those in authority – whether they deserve it or not – so He can do what we cannot.
The Romans 8:28 promise underscores this, “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.”
It is almost impossible to comprehend how our present circumstances can be worked together for our good. But this is the promise of God not politicians or government. God will use our current circumstances to bring about good for those who love Him – if we trust Him.
Veteran politician, Mangosuthu Buthelezi (93) echoed these sentiments in a 12-minute recorded message to the ‘Christian Leaders Forum’ entitled, “Rebuilding the Walls of South Africa.” Mr. Buthelezi laments the corrosive corruption and destructive riots in our country but appeals to Christians to respond to the hate, greed and injustice in an opposite spirit.
Mr. Buthulezi also quotes from my newsletter emphasizing the call that “Believers who trust in the power of prayer must adopt the daily habit of praying for everyone in authority.”
I know God hears your and my prayers. I know God keeps His promises to those who love Him and are the called according to His purpose. I am therefore convinced the Holy Spirit is leading believers to pray for all those in authority so that God’s Will be done.
The wickedness and injustice we witness every day in our beautiful country can cause us to lose hope. But our hope is in Jesus Christ, the King of kings and Lord of lords. He promised, He will never leave us nor forsake us. I reiterate, keep praying, keep standing. He hears.
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Date published: 17/08/2021
Feature image: Artwork adapted from unsplash.com
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Well said Errol. We must keep on praying fervently! God bless!