This picture was taken by my daughter when she went on a school trip to Washington D.C. in 2012. Just looking at this picture brings some thoughts in mind. One thought is that many national governments around the world are in debt so leaders of a nation need to be held to account when handling the people’s money frivolously. Another thought is that a nation cannot survive under corruption.  

We can study God’s historical word and be given examples of how a nation that is not following His ways end up being destroyed. In 1 Kings 15:25 through 16:34, the common denominator of the kings of Israel during this time in history is the worship of useless idols rather than the ONE true God.

King Ahab took it even further by serving and worshiping Baal. He also made an Asherah pole and did more to arouse the anger of the Lord, the God of Israel, than did all the kings of Israel before him (See 16:32-33).

Useful lessons can be learned from history and especially from the historical record found in the Word of God. Leaders of integrity, of principle, and character, that take stands on tough issues are the ones that set in place a positive environment that is beneficial to their people.

This day with You Lord, we reach for Your high standards. We are thankful for the Holy Spirit, grace, and Your power to help us grow each day towards these high standards. We are thankful for the lessons learned from the historical record of Your word that teaches us that everything in life comes together when we worship You only. When everything in the world is broken, our trust in Jesus puts everything back together. For we begin today with these thoughts in mind as we pray in Jesus’ name … amen.