BEYOND ANALYSIS
The rationale for analysis of any sort, is sound judgment. The popular belief that 'intelligent' decisions are the foundation for progress, in any endeavour, is the reason, that the schooled mind is considered an invaluable asset to the individual, organization or the society that harbours it.
The application of the results from intellectual analysis without doubts runs on the wheels of logics, which are themselves restricted within boundaries set by nature. This invariably places a limitation, sometimes on the scope and application of intellectual analysis. In other words, sometimes, there is a critical point which some have described as the 'TIPPING POINT', from which the outcome that follows defies any known analytical predictions!
This phenomenon seems to be more prevalent in the emergence of leaders, than in any other spheres of life. The landscape of history is littered with political, military and even religious figures, whose ascension to leadership, fell far, outside the radar of intellectual computation. Perhaps, it is this paradox that has constrained some analysts to posit that, 'a people get the kind of leadership they deserve'.
And that is the point at issue, namely that, the people alone do not determine, even in the most liberal democracy, who govern, or rule them. The above assertion is a tacit acknowledgment that there is a conferring power, beyond human control that install rulers. That is, there is always the hand of God, somehow influencing the emergence of leadership. The Bible and other religious authorities stress this fact.
'Everyone must submit himself to the governing authority for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authority that be, has been established by God'. (Rom. 13.1).
Many have questioned the veracity of such claim, particularly in the face of very oppressive and tyrannical rulers. Principally because, a just, loving, and righteous God, should logically not appoint a wicked ruler over a people.
The question is, why does God appoint or sometimes permit treacherous men to assume leadership?
First, God, unlike men, sees, and deals with the big picture. Our analysis are truncated by our limited vision and knowledge. In dealing with the whole world as a very rich drama plot, every event only finds significance in the light of the entire piece. Our attempt at interpreting each event in isolation is the reason for our confusion and frustration. Besides, God's eternal purpose is the principal controlling factor behind world history! Cruel leaders can also be an instrument of judgment in the hand of God against the wickedness of the people.
Countries are not just mere geographical expressions in the sight of God. But significant units with which He accomplishes His eternal purpose. 'From one, he made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth, and he determined the times set for them, and the exact places where they should live. God did this so that men would seek him, and perhaps reach out for him, and find him, though he is not far from each one of us. For in Him, we live, and move and have our being' (Acts 17.26&27).
Therefore, what is needed, at certain political season, more than sound analysis is 'discernment', the power or ability to perceive the direction of the wind of heaven. And then set sail, or sit still. Without which the political voyage ship of an upright man may sink.
•Asehon David (Public Affairs Commentator)
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