The Lord's People, Instead Of Amusing Themselves With Politics

Letters of John Newton
from gracegems.org

The times are gloomy — but the Lord reigns! To Him I would refer everything in public or in private life. There is political discontent in some hearts, and in some places. But I ought to be discontented with myself — that I am not filled with wonder and praise, that things are so much better with us than we deserve!

The Lord's people, instead of amusing themselves with politics, may be stirred up to serve their country by prayer. If they sigh and mourn for the abominations in the midst of us, and stand in the breach to avert deserved judgments — then our peace and liberty may be yet prolonged. I rely more upon the prayers of God's people, than upon all our fleets and armies!

It is well both for ministers and private Christians to have as little to do with politics as possible. Politics is a pit that will swallow up the life and spirit, if not the very form of the religion of many professors. The Lord reigns, and every issue will be directed by infinite wisdom and goodness, without our interference. And can we wish them under better management?

From poison and politics — good Lord deliver me! A heart swallowed up in politics is as hurtful to the life of God in the soul — as poison is to the bodily frame!