If a certain institution like our civil government takes too much responsibility (especially those that are not really their responsibility) – the system will crash.
For the longest time the government has tried to be the SAVIOR of the Philippines. They have taken on all responsibilities and made promises to solve the problems of the nation.
Can you just imagine the campaign promises
– no more poverty
– no more corruption
– I will make you happy
– food in every table
– job security
Even I as a pastor cannot promise that to my congregation because of some valid reasons
1. I AM NOT GOD.
I can do my part but to make everyone do theirs is a big task that only God can do. God is sovereign and in control. He is the source of change and national transformation – not a person. Pinning our hopes on the presidential candidates would just be an empty exercise of faith. They are not God. The Government is not our Savior.
2. IT IS NOT THEIR JOB
The government must understand what their job and stick to it. If you look at the first 5 books of the Bible and some Scripture in the New Testament – the job of the civil government can be summed up in one sentence.
PROTECT THE INNOCENT AND PUNISH THE GUILTY.
Do we expect the president to solve unwanted pregnancies, drug problems, education, our sexual life, our adultery, our alcoholism, our vandalism, our abortion, our traffic problem, our family concerns.
We have overrated government and they can’t handle the pressure because in the first place it is not their job. They can only do much.
Here is the picture of how our government looks like
Seriously do we expect them to solve all of society’s problem?
Just an unsolicited advice to our government officials:
Resist the temptation to use the state as the savior of the people.
This is how it would look like if we continue to pass our responsibility to the civil government
Check out my blog tomorrow on how we can partner with the government.
Related posts:
2. Separation of Church and State