Believers and Politics

We are living in crazy days. Our world seems to be literally upside down when compared to a time not that long ago. There is unrest, division, and uneasiness. The economy, the border, Israel, the Supreme Court, abortion, public health, trade, inflation, terrorism – the list of issues goes on and on.

Then, add in an election year, and things really get over the top! We are told, “Everything rises and falls with this election. It is the most important of our generation.” Everyone is loud. So loud. Anger seems to be the response of many. Emotions, expectedly, are high.

What to do?

In all the hoopla – the question is: what are believers to do? How do we best follow Christ and exist in these days in which we find ourselves? I see varied responses from all over the spectrum. Some want to put their head in the sand. Others radically call for drastic measures (some you’ve no doubt heard). Musicians, politicians, and even Hulk Hogan are weighing in.

Following are 5 things that we would do well to remember and practice.

1.) Pray.

Pray for our leaders (as the Bible commands). Pray for wisdom. Pray for strength and courage. Pray for God to work. Pray for Christian leaders to emerge. Many times we use these loud days to talk to everyone else about the issues instead of to the One who is trustworthy in all matters.

2.) Participate as God leads you.

We live in this world. We worship, work, and raise families in it. God says to, “give unto Caesar that which is Caesar’s…” (Luke 20:25). As citizens, we have civic duties in the nation we live in. So, if God leads you to run, then run. And, if God leads you to vote, then vote. If God leads you to participate in other ways, then do that. But – YOU do what God leads YOU to do. Many times, much energy is spent and much frustration is felt trying to get others to join or celebrate what we believe God called us to do or what we believe is right. Instead, you pray, seek God’s wisdom, and respond accordingly.

3.) Be confident God is in control.

Perhaps more than other times, election cycles are dominated by fear. “If they win we’re sunk!” “If they do not win, we’ll never recover.” The truth is – God is in control – and He always has been! The Bible tells us the world’s most powerful rulers are like water channeled through God’s sovereign hand. He uses good ones for His purposes. And believe it or not, He uses bad ones for His purpose as well. As believers we can be calm, settled, and sure, God is in control!

4.) Be loud! Jesus is the answer!

Be clear, neither party nor any candidate holds our answer. Our answer is found in Jesus, alone. He alone has perfect wisdom. He alone can give peace that lasts. He alone can forgive sinners and set people right with God. Jesus is our answer, so use these days to frequently talk about Him. Use all the coffee shop and water cooler discussions to talk about the peace you have in Him. Instead of existing in an avalanche of others’ propaganda, be a mouthpiece for the truth. Be loud and tell them of Jesus! A warning – know that how you respond and act during these days has the ability to draw others to Christ, but may be more likely to push them away from Christ! If you go around in utter hand-ringing despair, they can’t believe you have found hope. They won’t. If you throw rocks at everyone else, posting that one thing (just so they know), they will not pause long enough to consider your claim of love and peace. It’s empty.

As a pastor, I know how I will vote. But, as a pastor, you won’t hear it from me. Why? Because I’m a coward? Not at all! It’s because I serve a bigger cause! I would rather tell you about my Savior than my vote! I would rather tell you about my Hope than my party! I’d rather lift up Jesus to you, than put you down in empty politics!

5.) Smile.

Yes, smile! We have a Savior. He has won and stands in glorious victory! Coming is a day with no injustice, no sin, and no trouble. As a world clamors loudly to promote their ideologies, pick your chin up, seek to honor Christ and make Him known – and smile!