As we quickly approach a midterm election, television, radio, and social media are full of ads. Unfortunately, politics in America has truly become a battleground of hateful speech by both parties with the result of dividing in lieu of unifying the country. What should a Christian do in times like these?
As always, a Christian should be led by God and not a political party. Our rule and guide is the Bible. Psalm 103:19 states, “ The LORD has established His throne in the heavens, And His sovereignty rules over all.” Throughout the Old and New Testament God places people in the political realm. God placed Joseph into a position of authority in Egypt (Genesis 41:38-49). He placed Ester as queen in Persia (Book of Ester). John the Baptist was used by God to call out the sin of Herod Antipas, even though it would result in the imprisonment and later death of John the Baptist. The Apostle Paul was placed in prison on multiple occasions for declaring that Jesus is King (Acts 17).
Unfortunately, it appears that our politics and government are drifting away from God. Throughout history the most powerful empires have fallen. The Egyptian, Babylonian, Medo-Persian, Greek, and Roman empires failed to recognize there is only one sovereign ruler. Regardless of how far our country strays from God- Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior will return to establish an eternal kingdom. Revelation 19:15-16, “ From His mouth comes a sharp sword, so that with it He may strike down the nations, and He will rule them with a rod of iron; and He treads the winepress of the fierce wrath of God, the Almighty. And on His robe and on His thigh He has a name written, "KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS." As Christians we must be involved in the political process, but always remember it is about His agenda not ours.
Christians should participate in the political process by voting for the person that best represents God’s agenda. Whether it is a Democrat, Independent, or Republican the kingdom agenda should govern.
Christians should also speak, act, and interact with others in a spirit of love as stated in 1 John 4:7-8, “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. The one who does not love does not know God, for God is love.”
Christians should pray for our elected officials that they are led by God and not political agendas.
Finally, and most important, Christians should be continuously spreading the gospel message that Jesus Christ died on the cross for all who would follow Him!
Brother Mark Booker