Worry and Control

My devotional thought this morning struck a chord this morning so I thought I'd share as it has to do with the upcoming election.

And He changes the times and the seasons; He removes kings and raises up kings; He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding.
Daniel 2:21

Very soon, Americans will go to the polls and vote for the next president and vice-president of the United States. Hundreds more officials in states and communities will also be elected. But in light of verses like Daniel 2:21--"[God] removes kings and raises up kings"--does it really matter if we vote or not? Doesn't He ultimately choose?

Yes--God ultimately chooses everything. And Yes--it matters that we vote. Everything that happens in God's sovereign economy has two parts: His part and our part. Whether it's salvation or a good marriage or a successful career, both God's grace and our activity is required. From a practical perspective, the Bible is filled with exhortations that depend on our responsibility. The same verse that says God removes and raises up kings says that He gives "wisdom . . . and knowledge." And Proverbs 2:1-8 says that acquiring wisdom is like searching for buried treasure. There is work to be done in order to find it.

The sovereignty of God never excuses us from responsibility.
Will Metzger

Those of you who know me, know that I am not highly political. But with this election drawing near, I find myself getting sucked in to the political arena ... and it's frightening! Most of you who know me also won't be surprised to know that although I don't agree 100% with McCain/Palin I do support their campaign and to say that I am fearful of a government run by Obama is a complete understatement. As I read Daniel 2:21 this morning and then the devotional to follow, I realized that my worrying isn't going to solve or help anything ... it's only going to cause me undue stress. God is in control and regardless of who wins this election He already knows the outcome. Thank goodness! That's too much of a load for me to carry!