If you're a US citizen, you hopefully voted in this week's midterm elections. And if you did, you may be feeling disappointed or dismayed at the results. But an election is always an opportunity to remind ourselves of some very important truths.
After the recent midterm elections, some Americans may be feeling down or upset, but Christians can take another perspective.
Our hope does not lie in governments or political leaders but in God and His promises.
Psalm 146 tells us:
Do not put your trust in princes,
in human beings, who cannot save.
When their spirit departs, they return to the ground;
on that very day their plans come to nothing.
Blessed are those whose help is the God of Jacob,
whose hope is in the Lord their God.
Political leaders and governments come and go. and while they are necessary here on earth, they are not where we are called to place our trust and hope. Jesus Christ already reigns as King of kings and Lord of lords — our hope and help is in Him.
We should maintain a healthy skepticism of politics while also holding those who represent us to high standards.
Each of us should know by now that a healthy dose of skepticism goes a long way when listening to political speeches and campaigns, as well as to the media. That said, a free and fair press is necessary for a vibrant democracy, as are political leaders who uphold the principles of democracy. We should never tire of working for that, and making sure we support those who are doing it well.
As the cliche goes, we should consider how we can “be the change we want to see.”
If you don't like what's happening out there, are you perhaps being called to run for office? Local government is particularly important, as it affects day-to-day life so much. Do you have friends or family members you can support who may want to run for office? Or can you get involved in the election process in some way the next time there’s an election?
Regardless, consider how you can at least be part of restoring civil discourse to the culture, whether online or in your own circles. And when elected officials do something well, even if you didn’t vote for them, send them a note of thanks and appreciation.
Prayer always winneth the day
No matter who’s been elected, they need our prayers. Public service is difficult and these days anything you say or do can be captured and shared with millions at the click of a button. There is an enormous amount of scrutiny and pressure on political leaders today.
As Ephesians 6:12 reminds us, "our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but with the principalities, with the powers, with the world rulers of this present darkness, with the evil spirits in the heavens."
If we believe our leaders to be on the wrong path, we can pray for their hearts and minds to change. Prayer has power, and it always begins in our own hearts.
