Election Reflection: Trusting God Beyond Politics

by | Nov 5, 2024 | Special Day

Well, today is Election Day in the United States. It can be a day full of uncertainty, tension, conflict, and possibly even fear. Emotions can run hot, and many people will feel anxious and uncomfortable waiting for the results. However, for those who trust God, Election Day can also be a day of clarity. No matter who wins, we know that God is still in control. Romans 13 tells us that "the powers that be are ordained of God." Meaning that no leader can be in power without God’s permission. Every leader of every government is within His control. Sometimes it is to bless, sometimes to correct, but always for a purpose. At the end of the day, whether we like the outcome or not, we can be confident that God’s hand is at work, guiding everything for an ultimate good.

Christians on Both Sides of the Political Divide

As we interact with others in the days ahead, it’s important to remember that there are real Christians on all sides of the political divide—whether Democrat, Republican, or otherwise. No political party fully represents the values of God’s Kingdom. This puts us in a position where we must choose between what we consider the lesser of two evils. Each party supports some values that align with Scripture and others that do not.

For example, Republican candidates may overlook the Bible’s teachings about treating foreigners and strangers kindly (Leviticus 19:33-34; Deuteronomy 10:18-19) or ignore the command to leave food for the poor and hungry (Leviticus 19:9-10; Deuteronomy 24:19-21). On the other hand, Democrats may support abortion (Exodus 20:13; Psalm 139:13-16) and the normalization of gender dysphoria and homosexuality (Genesis 1:27; Deuteronomy 22:5; Romans 1:26-27). These issues, among others, highlight how each party falls short of the biblical command to "love your neighbor as yourself."

Supporting non-medically necessary abortion disregards the sanctity of life and the image of God that has been given to humanity, while normalizing gender dysphoria leads to confusion and emotional distress instead of compassionate care and truth (Romans 1:26-27; Ephesians 4:15). Similarly, ignoring the needs of foreigners and the poor falls short of loving others, as it neglects basic needs and disregards God’s desire for justice, mercy, and compassion (Micah 6:8; James 2:15-17; Proverbs 14:31).

No party can claim to be a true "Christian" party, and as believers, we must not let political disagreements weaken our unity in Christ. We must resist the urge to treat those who disagree politically as enemies. Remember, we do not wrestle with flesh and blood, but against the spiritual forces at work in this world (Ephesians 6:12). Our brothers and sisters in Christ may have different political views, but they are still part of the same body of Christ, saved by the same grace and following the same Savior.

Unity in Christ Above Politics

Colossians 3:11 tells us that in Christ, "there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all." In today’s context, this means that our unity as Christians must be stronger than our political labels. Political affiliations should never be more important than our responsibility to love and care for others as Christ commanded us. Our primary identity is not in our political party but in being followers of Jesus. We must be willing to put aside our political differences and focus on what truly matters—the Gospel and our mission to share the love of Christ with the world.

The world is watching how we respond during times like these, and our actions should reflect the love, grace, and unity that Christ desires from His people. When we stand before Christ to give an account of our lives, and He asks us "Why did you not feed the poor or make a stand for unborn life?" answers like "Because I am a Republican/Democrat" will not suffice. Surely then, Christ would ask, "Why did you not identify yourself by My name, Christian? I called you to a greater purpose." Our identity in Christ then, must be more important.

Hope in Christ Alone

Our hope does not depend on the outcome of this election or any election to come. Our hope comes from Christ alone. We are pilgrims in this world, not looking for an earthly kingdom but a heavenly one—a city whose builder and maker is God (Hebrews 11:10). Let us not put our trust in human leaders or political parties but in the King of Kings, who reigns forever. Human leaders and political systems are imperfect, but Christ is perfect, and His reign is eternal. No matter who ends up in power, Jesus is still on the throne, and His Kingdom will not be shaken. This is the assurance we have as believers, that our hope is secure because it is anchored in Christ.

As we go through this Election Day, let us pray for our leaders, no matter who they are, and remember that God is in control. Let’s be instruments of His peace, showing love and grace to everyone around us. We are called to be peacemakers, not people who stir up conflict, and our words and actions should bring comfort, not division. Let us strive for unity in the Body of Christ, remembering that our true citizenship is in heaven. No election or leader can change the fact that our hope, trust, and future are secure in Christ Jesus. We must live as people of hope, letting our light shine in a dark and divided world. Our hope in Christ is like a beacon that points others to Him, and we must not let the temporary concerns of this world dim that light.

Our Role as Ambassadors for Christ

Do not forget your political role in the Kingdom of God. We are all elected ambassadors of the Kingdom, called to be salt and light, to make disciples of all nations, and to demonstrate God’s love to a hurting world. As we interact with our neighbors, friends, and even those we disagree with, let us do so with the understanding that our ultimate goal is to glorify God and make His name known. May we be united in our love for Christ and our desire to see His Kingdom come, regardless of the political landscape. Remember, Christian, our hope is not in this world but in the everlasting Kingdom of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

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