Jeremiah chapter 22 verses 1-3 (NIV)
This is what the LORD says: “Go down to the palace of the king of Judah and proclaim this message there: ‘Hear the word of the LORD to you, king of Judah, you who sit on David’s throne —you, your officials and your people who come through these gates. This is what the LORD says: Do what is just and right. Rescue from the hand of the oppressor the one who has been robbed. Do no wrong or violence to the foreigner, the fatherless or the widow, and do not shed innocent blood in this place.
Jeremiah chapter 22 verses 15-16 (NIV)
Does it make you a king
to have more and more cedar?
Did not your father have food and drink?
He did what was right and just,
so all went well with him.
He defended the cause of the poor and needy,
and so all went well.
Here we see that the king of Judah and those of his officials in authority were being reminded by Jeremiah, as God’s spokesman as to what their priorities should be. They were also reminded of the consequences of doing what is right and just.
It’s not always easy for those in authority to keep their focus on the right things, as there are so many competing issues. I think that’s why we are told to pray for those who are in authority, to help them do the right thing.
It’s something that’s been on my heart for a while so I recently got more involved with the organisation, “Christians in Parliament.”
I have been very encouraged by their Autumn newsletter which tells of the regular all-party prayer meetings and their outreach plans for those in Parliament. They deserve our prayers and support.
Dear Lord,
I pray for Your servants in our Parliaments. Help them to focus on doing the right thing without compromising their faith in You. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.