Elections matter. They matter a great deal. However, regardless of the outcome on November 3, 2020, it is essential to remember five election truths of far greater importance than who is elected to office. These principles provide a necessary perspective for believers navigating a divided political landscape.
As you read these truths, may your heart and mind find peace in the fact that God is sovereign and his divine plans will never be thwarted. This foundation is especially vital when leading your congregation during election season, as it shifts the focus from earthly anxiety to eternal assurance.
First Truth: God is primary; a political party is secondary. Above all else, our priority is to be with the Lord. Paul reminds Christians, “Our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ” (Phil. 3:20). While we should care about the affairs of this world, our primary focus must remain on our eternal destination rather than temporary political expectations. We must ensure that political shifts do not hinder our spiritual impact, recognizing the unique opportunities for evangelism in the wake of the election.
Second Truth: You do not unite under a political figure but are united in the person of Jesus Christ. The natural thing to do if your candidate doesn’t get enough votes is to slip into depression. But, instead of fixating on the repercussions of your candidate not winning, be reminded that Christ came into this world to save you from sin and death. In the end, you might have to pay higher taxes but be encouraged that you are united with Christ in his resurrection (Rom. 6:4-5), adopted into his Sonship (Gal. 4:5), and have been blessed with every spiritual blessing in heaven (Eph. 1:3).
Third Truth: It’s your faith that defines you, not politics. Politics has become a religion for many people. But it shouldn’t be for Christians. Your political party may win or lose, but that doesn’t determine the outcome of your faith. John affirms, “For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith” (1 John 5:4). Keep engaging the culture with the gospel despite who is in the White House.
Fourth Truth: The Bible is your standard, not your political views. After the election, your governor, senator, or even the president may not be a person who holds to the same beliefs you do. If that’s the case, make it a priority to pray for them and take comfort in the fact that they are not your standard of how to live. The Bible teaches you how you ought to live. So, no matter what policies are legislated in your state or the country, keep turning to the infallible Word of God for direction and solace.
Fifth Truth: Spend more time with Jesus than listening to political leaders. Before reading this last truth, check your screen time first. How many hours did you spend on your phone already today? Or how much TV or YouTube did you consume in the last week? The point is, you can get so bombarded by the endless news clips, segments, and points of view—that it can bring you to a breaking point. It’s good to stay informed, but not at the expense of not spending time with Jesus. You will find that the more you cultivate time with Jesus, the healthier you will be to counteract the falsehoods espoused in the culture.
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