Rich Bott

Good morning! I’m on my way to London Heathrow to catch my flight home to Tel Aviv. During my Sunday evening message in Catania, Sicily, exactly a week ago today, the Lord brought something to my attention that wasn’t in my notes: even during the millennial kingdom, when Jesus Himself will rule over the nations and David will reign over Israel, the human heart will still need to be changed (Revelation 20:4–6; Ezekiel 37:24–25). We live in a fallen world, yet we often expect our political leaders to be perfect. When they disappoint us, we sometimes refuse to vote altogether - as though our absence will somehow make things better. We also judge leaders by their unfulfilled promises without considering the opposition, obstruction, and resistance they face in trying to fulfill them. But consider this: even after a thousand years under the righteous reign of Jesus, Satan will be released from his prison and deceive multitudes into a final rebellion against the Lord and His people (Revelation 20:7–10). If people will rebel against the perfect King, why should we expect any elected leader to enjoy universal support or accomplish everything we hope for? The promise of no more tears, death, sorrow, or pain belongs to the new heaven and new earth, when the New Jerusalem descends from heaven and God dwells with His people (Revelation 21:1–4). We must not expect an election to deliver what only God’s final restoration can bring. I believe this reminder is especially relevant to many Americans and Europeans: Go and vote. Vote according to biblical convictions, without demanding a perfect candidate. The sanctity of unborn life, God’s design for marriage and family, His creation of humanity as male and female, justice, and His enduring purposes for Israel should all inform our choices (Psalm 139:13–16; Genesis 1:27; 2:24; Romans 13:3–4; 11:28–29). The cost of living matters. But should frustration over gas prices lead us to abandon our convictions about the value of human life, the family, or the difference between right and wrong? Our responsibility is to remain faithful, even when we are disappointed. “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.” - Galatians 6:9 Only when God finally removes sin and death will sorrow and pain be gone forever. Until then, let us choose with discernment, stand on His Word, and redeem the time, “because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:15–16).