In a few days’ time, Singapore will celebrate her 47^th National Day. We are blessed in many ways in terms, as the nation’s pledge endeavours to achieve, “to build a democratic society, based on justice and equality, so as to achieve happiness, prosperity and progress.” We are also shielded from many natural disasters. Many Singaporeans shared that they appreciate Singapore better each time after they return from overseas trips.

As we enjoy and celebrate our nation’s peace and prosperity, we need first to remember to give thanks to God. Several thousand years ago, a great king, King Nebuchadnezzar of the ancient nation Babylon (the modern day Irag) understood this fact:

All the peoples of the earth are regarded as nothing. He does as He pleases with the powers of heaven and the peoples of the earth. No one can hold back His hand or say to Him: “What have you done?” (Daniel 4:35)

The Almighty God alone decides the well being of any nation. As we enjoy the good standard of living here, we should also see behind these good things the kind hand of God.

Second, we must be thankful to our leaders, especially our Prime Minister and his cabinet ministers. As the Bible reminds us in Hebrews 13:17:

Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you.

Although “leaders” here refers to church leaders, the principle behind this injunction applies to all who ensure our well being. The responsibility of taking care of whether it is a church or a nation is extremely difficult. When our leaders decide on something that is beneficial to our country, as much as our leaders allow us to participate in the decision making process, let us also give them our support and encouragement when it is something that pleases God.

Do not make their work burdensome by just criticizing, criticizing and criticizing because it does not benefit us when in order to appease us, they take a decision that is less than ideal. Instead, where possible, let us encourage them that their hearts and hands may be strengthened to govern Singapore. Perhaps you might even consider dropping a note of thanksgiving to the Prime Minister and his cabinet.

Remember also to pray for them:

I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.

“Almighty eternal God, our Father, we pray that you will grant to our leaders good health as they take on the stresses of ruling our nation. Give to them also a God-fearing heart that they may make decisions that honour you. Impart to them wisdom to make various decisions that our country may prosper, that your people may live lives that please you.”