“Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity.”

As I write this, it is a day before the start of the GOP Convention and a week plus before the Democratic Convention.  I have no idea what will come out of these gatherings. They can go many ways.  They can be peaceful and productive, or they can turn ugly and chaotic.  Consider that even in the business world we all probably have a story or two of the bad things that happen when our employees head to a convention or a conference and the gathering of people, most out-of-town, who know each other or not, creates all kinds of activities that might not be what was intended.  I sadly suspect that we will watch, hear and read of some of this activity that will come to a head this week and next from both Cleveland and Philadelphia.

As believers, we are held to a higher standard when we are put in these types of situations.  While none of us are ever perfect, we can be extra cautious about the events and places we allow ourselves to attend.  Next time we are on the road, let’s consider the consequences that can occur to not only our reputations but also to our testimonies.

This week and next let’s also follow Paul’s encouragement to pray for those leaders who are at our political conventions and that there would be peaceful and dignified outcomes.

Reference:  1 Timothy 2:2 (New Living Translation)