1 Timothy 2:1–4 (ESV) — 1 First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, 2 for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. 3 This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.

Some Scripture passages convict me anew every time I re-read them. This is one of those.

What are we to hope for from our governments? Merely that under their care, we may lead live:

a. Peacefully – Not be war seeking, but warring only when needed to bring peace.

b. Quietly – Not creating disquiet in society, but calm.

c. Godly – Not interfering with our service to God.

d. Dignified – Protecting the dignity and sanctity of human life.

This may serve too as a good guide regarding those whom we are to vote for in elections to government positions: Those whom – as best as we can discern – will be most likely to aim at these very same goals.

But how is this to be brought about? Prayer. Earnest prayer for those on all sides of our political and social discourse. That those we agree with and those with whom we have the most vigorous disagreement, would themselves find peace in reconciliation to God through Jesus Christ. That they might be possessed of a quieted demeanor, manifesting the inward influence of the Holy Spirit. That they would seek godliness in their private and public lives. And that in embracing the truth of mankind created in the image of God, they might seek to walk in and restore the dignity that rightly attaches itself to such.

It is easy to just pray about people. But our call is to pray for them. We cannot legislate, nor vote in a peaceful, quiet, godly and dignified society. We can only pray it into existence.

Whether the statement ascribed to Mary Queen of Scots in the graphic is authentic or not – it ought to be a genuine sentiment regarding Christians today. I am ashamed it probably cannot be said in truth.