The relationship between church/religion and government has always been an interesting conversation in the 21st century. Most countries agree that there should be a clear boundary between religion and the state, so that both are respected and sovereign within their respective territories. The separation is motivated by past experiences of unhealthy intermingling of the two, resulting in near-absolute power. Nevertheless, awkward relationships and responses to the government/state remain a part of our faith struggles today. The question that arises is how to behave and respond to the government with all its policies? Should we blindly support it, or should we be sufficiently supportive so as to always give room for criticism of government policies?"

It seems that this anxiety has been well captured by our reading this time. Ecclesiastes says that the response to the King is one of the signs or fruits of one's wisdom. It needs to be understood that the King at that time was a leader who had absolute power. He was seen as God's chosen one who was full of wisdom, so ordinary people could not behave as they pleased before the king. This can be seen in the preacher's advice in this chapter to not leave the king when he presents his command. The reason is that the king can do whatever he wants and his word is authoritative. Consequently, those who obey will be spared from danger.

Wisdom also comes from the right action in responding to and even correcting the king. There must be a right way and time. The king is still a human being. He has limitations so many things are out of his reach including the future. Therefore, he needs to be reminded that there is a judgement from God on his every action. Thus, the sovereignty over life is God alone and the king or leader of the country must walk hand in hand with God's sovereignty.

From this we can learn that while respect for the authority of the state or ruler needs to be maintained, there is always room to provide constructive criticism and input to the ruler. Our submission is not blind submission to the government. Rather, it is respect based on its authority and trust that the government is doing what God wants it to do. However, our absolute obedience is only to God so that everything must be seen in the light of His government.