God Only Builds Nations, Men His Workmanship
"Everything I heard in my country about your achievements and wisdom is true! I didn't believe it until I arrived here and saw it with my own eyes. Truly I had not heard the half of it! Your wisdom is far greater than what I was told.
"How happy these people must be! What a privilege for your officials to stand here day after day, listening to your wisdom!
"The Lord your God is great indeed! He delights in you and has placed you on the throne to rule for him. Because God loves Israel so much and desires this kingdom to last forever, he has made you king so you can rule with justice and righteousness."
2 Chronicles 9:5-8 NLT
Good Governance
Those are the surprised words of the Ethiopian Queen Sheba on her visit to Israel’s King Solomon, commending his good governance and the joy of the nation.
Undoubtedly, there cannot be good governance without the ruler partnered with God, by way of focusing on justice and righteousness.
However, justice and righteousness cannot come up without the chief human actor acknowledging God’s authority and control; otherwise, his efforts would always hit a brick wall.
Elements of Good Governance
In the secular world, social science has identified some elements of good governance which include accountability, openness, respect for rule of law and human rights, inclusiveness and efficiency.
In addition, part of the outstanding purpose of good governance is to minimise (if not eradicate) corruption and promote the views of the minorities and marginalised populations.
And coming to decision-making, good governance looks to the present and future needs of the society, acting in a timely manner and bringing forethought and awareness to the nation.
Summary
Most national leaders often aspire to make life better for their people, but more often than not turn otherwise. Most often, they forget that nation building rests on the pillars of justice and righteousness.
Good governance is not about ownership but stewardship or servant-leadership, bringing about healthy and sustainable development to the benefit of all, and unity in diversity.
And these cannot come in place without the leadership building on the foundation of justice and righteousness which are elements of God-fearing spirit.
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