Whatever is…admirable…whatever is noble…if anything is excellent or praiseworthy…think about such things. —Philippians 4:8

Click here to read today’s Scripture: Psalm 45

“No, I am not a PUP, and I'm not defending the Prime Minister,” I retorted to a visiting friend and family member who, once again, were berating our head of state. Surely, dissing and poking fun at politicians is not a new phenomenon, but nowadays, it has become almost a national sport, even among Christians. But imagine if we spent half as much time speaking and writing charitably about our elected leaders, encouraging and lifting them up.

One of my writer friends shared Psalm 45:1 in our group chat recently. It's very refreshing to see how lavishly the psalmist praised his king:

My heart is stirred by a noble theme

as I recite my verses for the king;

my tongue is the pen of a skillful writer.

In verse 2, the psalmist continues:

You are the most excellent of men

and your lips have been anointed with grace,

since God has blessed you forever.

It’s easy to find fault with our political leaders—pointing out their misdeeds and shortcomings. And, indeed, it is necessary for the public to hold them accountable when they make wrong choices. But it is also important to encourage them in the countless ways they do serve us well, both locally and nationally.

Paul says in Philippians 4: 8, “Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” May this be the posture of our hearts and minds toward our political leaders.

Reflect: How can you, both privately and publicly, uplift your political leaders?

Prayer Starter: 

Lord, Jesus, You experienced firsthand how hard it is to lead people.  I ask a special blessing today on political leaders. Give them the wisdom and all they need to carry out the work that You have set before them. 

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