As of this writing, the election results are TBD. The levels of tension, angst, and rhetoric do not contribute to “a more perfect Union” as intended by the U.S. founders. How do Christians respond? Here are eight ways to focus your thoughts, whether your candidates win or lose.
1. Trust God. Even the U.S. motto makes that appeal. “In God We Trust.” To borrow from Chuck Colson, our salvation will not arrive on Air Force One. We can trust Providence with the outcome of the election and the future of America. “Some boast in chariots and some in horses, but we will boast in the name of the Lord, our God” (Psa. 20:7).
2. Remember where you ultimately belong. It’s OK if you’re not feeling very patriotic right now because, “Our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ” (Phil. 3:20). We are here for a moment, there forever.
3. Be humble in an active way. No gloating. “With humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves. Do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others” (Phil. 2:3-4).
4. Speak up and tell the truth kindly. Rod Dreher wrote a whole book called “Live Not By Lies.” Deceptions hurt people. The Hebrew hero Mordecai cautioned Esther about remaining silent during their crisis. She had “attained royalty for such a time as this” (Est. 4:14). This is your time and place.
5. If you are stressed over politics, put those trials to work for you. Remember the hope found in Jesus’ resurrection. Pray God helps you to endure with joy. “Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance” (Jas. 1:2-3).
6. Love people, especially those who voted differently than you. Love, family, and friendships must be more important than politics. Don’t sacrifice to the idol of politics. “Owe nothing to anyone except to love one another; for he who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the law” (Rom. 13:8).
7. Be an active part of a Christian community. Refuse to give in to the darkness of isolation. “If we walk in the Light as He Himself is in the Light, we have fellowship with one another” (1 Jn. 1:7).
8. Represent God’s mission in the world. “We are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God” (2 Cor. 5:20).
As believers we know the truth and it has changed our lives. We have a mission and calling from God to be light in this world. This election does not change who we are and what we do. So, stay focused.