The Election: A Christlike Response

I woke this morning feeling sad for my country. The election made it clear that most Americans want a country different from what I’ve known. The America that I knew embraced freedom, faith in God and definable good from evil. I grew up in a community that honored prayer, respected traditional values and believed that integrity, honesty and hard work were the makings of leadership.

I took an extended time of prayer this morning knowing that people would seek me out for an opinion. My tank was empty. I needed to be filled up with God’s Holy Spirit.

While sitting with the Lord, God challenged me with a question: “Historically, how many morning have Christians woke to face far worse situations than the one you face now?” My thoughts were drawn to the disciples who woke one morning with the images of Jesus’ crucified body still on their minds. They were paralyzed with fear by the shouts of angry soldiers on the hunt for them. All had been lost. They were vulnerable, alone, helpless, beaten and confused.

So they thought.

Right then Jesus walks through the walls and stood in their midst, “Peace to you.” Can you imagine His welcomed smile among the grimacing expressions? He said to them, “Why are you troubled? Why do doubts arise in your heart?” Jesus encouraged the disciples in spite of the recent victory claimed by one of the most sadistic governments in human history. Jesus assured them that everything was still in control. (Luke 24:36-38)

Twenty-four hours earlier, the unrecognized Jesus met up with two other disciples on the Road to Emmaus. “Hey fellas, what kind of conversation are you having that makes you so sad?” They answered, “Haven’t you heard?” They walked Jesus down the all-too-familiar road of pessimism. But then He reveals Himself to them with the reassurance that God works all things together for good. (Luke 24:17-25)

Earlier, a group of terrified ladies were shaken to find an empty tomb. At the height of their dismay two angels appeared. “Hey ladies, don’t be afraid… He’s not here, but is risen!” The angels left them full of hope, and encouragement. (Luke 24:1-10)

The point is, the Church was birthed during one of the most dire, sinister governments in human history. God knows that the Light of His Truth shines the brightest in dark, troubling times.

The bottom line- We will get through this, and chances are, we’ll be bolder for it! God will use it for His glory and the Church will have opportunities to shine brighter. Let’s not sit around and mope! Pray for your re-elected president, and in all things give thanks and bring a message of hope and encouragement to the troubled people around you.

Election Anxiety

Most days I casually watch the news but last night’s presidential debate captured my complete attention. I was intently interested in every issue, not because I’m so politically minded, but because I still love my country, and I deeply care about our children’s future.

As I listened, a deep anxiety gnaws at my gut. I found myself both agreeing and arguing with the television screen. My anxiety grew more ferocious with each exchange. I finally stopped watching the debate and went to our mid-week prayer gathering. A small group of us gathered at God’s throne, and God whispered, “Be anxious for nothing.”

The economy, government entitlements, immigration issues, our foreign policy, Iran’s nuclear quest and the precarious state of Israel are among the most pressing political concerns facing our presidential candidates and the voters. Election anxiety is common and will grow unabated as long as we believe politics will save us. But an anxious heart is calmed with the realization of one simple truth.

Only God can save this country.

One of the most powerful kings of Scripture, Nebuchadnezzar, went totally bonkers from anxiety, “until he knew that the Most High rules in the kingdoms of men, and that God gives it to whomever He chooses.” (Daniel 4:32).

The politics of Jesus’ world were horrible, and it often made His disciples anxious. Jesus calmed their hearts by saying, “My kingdom is not of this world…” or in other words, “Don’t worry about it… for I go to prepare a place for you.”

Who will live in the White House for the next four years? I don’t know, but I do care. How much should I care? Where do I draw the line between taking personal responsibility and trusting God? The answer is simple.

I will cast my vote along with other responsible citizens and then I will cast my cares upon the Lord. The election will soon be over and the sun will rise the next day. Things are likely not to be as bad as I thought they might be and life will go on. I will follow Jesus and live for His glory. Is that simple enough?

I want to live my life for Jesus and trust God in all the details.