It is evident that there are basically two types of government in the world today – dictatorships and democracies. There may be alternate titles given to some systems, but really, they boil down to these two.

Those of us who live in a democracy tend to be repulsed by the idea of a dictatorship, where freedom of speech, freedom of the press and freedom of information are all curtailed. Anyone daring to speak out against the regime in which they live will, one way or another, disappear. The news provided to the general populace is heavily censored and internet subject matter (if available) is limited.

But things are not perfect in a democracy either. Yes, people can speak out for or against whichever party they wish, but the media is controlled by very wealthy and powerful people, who all have political agendas. So-called freedom of speech is fine, unless you have a view that doesn’t fit with societal expectations – then you may be vilified and, in some cases, dismissed from your employment. Cyber bullying has led to a lot of problems amongst teenagers, including depression and even suicide.

The current pandemic has also highlighted some issues with democracy.  Governments around the world have issued instructions to the population as advised by the medical profession regarding isolating, mask wearing and vaccination. Despite the fact that ignoring these instructions can be fatal, people have done just that. Here in Australia, we have heard of illegal parties, people lying about their health status to cross borders and we’ve seen mass rallies through various cities, which somehow so often seem to end up in violence.

No man-made system is really ideal, or for that matter, even fair. But God has promised to send His Son back to the earth to take charge and bring the peace and fairness that we all want. 

“‘For the time is coming,’ says the Lord, ‘when I will raise up a righteous descendant from King David’s line. He will be a King who rules with wisdom. He will do what is just and right throughout the land.’”  (Jeremiah 23:5, NLT)

The Bible tells us a lot more about that great time; it’s worth taking a look.