Don't curse the ruler of your people

arbilad · Head Chef

Don't curse the ruler of your people

lundbaek · Profuse Pontificator

It reads to me like we are to submit to rulers. But that piece of holy writ known as the Declaration of Independence seems to indicate that we have a right to rebel or revolt against unrighteous rulers. But then there's that bit in the Articles of Faith about our believing in being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and magistrates, in obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law.

I occasionally get onto discussions with others about do we or do we not have the right to revolt against our current government. Some verses of scripture give me the impression we should, while others do not. I still look to the Prophet for guidance, and in so doing I have the distinct impression that we, or at least I should not. Not that I want to, either, because the results would likely be devistating for my family.

arbilad · Head Chef

I looked at the scripture literally. That is, don't try to put a curse on the ruler of your people. Disagree with him, work to elect a different leader, but don't place a curse (similar in this instance to the meaning of hex) on him.

Jen · Senior Bucketkeeper

Why would you want your leader to be cursed? That's effectively cursing the whole nation. It would be more effective to pray for him and those working with him, that they'll be guided and have the desire to work for what's good and true.

arbilad · Head Chef

You're exactly right, Jen. After all, I'd be all for Obama if he started listening to the Lord and doing what He asked. It'd be great for him, and great for the country. I don't think it will happen, but which prayer would you more like to come true: a prayer for Obama to crash and burn (and take the country with him) or a prayer for him to do what the Lord wants him to do?

lundbaek · Profuse Pontificator

More to Jen's point, after the inauguration, Elder Ballard reportedly stated:

"I left with a feeling that the people of America are going to unite behind this new president and his administration and that we need to pray for him," Elder Ballard said. "We need to exercise our prayers and help him accomplish the great objectives that he has set."
http://www.deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,705279298,00.html

I wonder what "great objectives" Elder Ballard was thinking of. To me it looks like we are in for more Full Speed Ahead and Damn the Constitution.

arbilad · Head Chef

Well, Lundbaek, I think it all depends on your point of view. You could reasonably claim, for instance, that one of the great objectives Obama has set is to revive the economy. I'm all for that. But Obama's methods won't work. So I can pray that he'll see the light and use the correct methods.