SOAP Devotional 2014-08-28

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Scripture – Observation – Application – Praye

Scripture:

Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the reign of King Herod. About that time some wise men from eastern lands arrived in Jerusalem, asking, “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star as it rose, and we have come to worship him.” King Herod was deeply disturbed when he heard this, as was everyone in Jerusalem. He called a meeting of the leading priests and teachers of religious law and asked, “Where is the Messiah supposed to be born?” “In Bethlehem in Judea,” they said, “for this is what the prophet wrote: ‘And you, O Bethlehem in the land of Judah, are not least among the ruling cities of Judah, for a ruler will come from you who will be the shepherd for my people Israel.’ ” Then Herod called for a private meeting with the wise men, and he learned from them the time when the star first appeared. Then he told them, “Go to Bethlehem and search carefully for the child. And when you find him, come back and tell me so that I can go and worship him, too!” (‭Matthew‬ ‭2‬:‭1-8‬ NLT)

Observation:

King Herod held the highest public office in the land and was threatened by the thought of a rival. He sought out information from religious leaders, but not so that he could come in line with scriptures. It was so he could try to subvert what the scriptures had taught and keep his own agenda in place. He tried to use the commitment of the wise men to help accomplish his goals by lying to them about his intentions.

Application:

Those in political positions of power are often tempted to do whatever it takes to remain in power. Just because they may seek out spiritual or religious leaders, it may not mean that they are honestly inquiring of things of faith. It could be that they are just trying to figure out what they need to do for personal gain. Living in a land where we can choose our political leaders, we would do well to watch carefully how people have lived and voted in the past when trying to choose Christian leaders. Even if they say they are Christians, but vote or make judgments contrary to what a Christian should do, we need to exercise exercise caution.

Prayer:

Father, help me to be wise when choosing who I support politically. Help me to support truly godly men and women. And Lord, help those kinds of people to gain favor among the populace.