How is a Christian to live out political election results?
We update our prayer lists.
“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.” (1 Tim. 2:1-4 NIV)
People of other political parties and religions are not the enemy; they are the ones we are called to love. It starts with prayer and aligning our heart with God’s.
We learn from those who voted differently than us.
“An intelligent heart acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.” (Proverbs 18:15 ESV)
It’s in our nature to think our perspective is complete and right, but that is inconsistent with our human experience. We often see things differently with time. Our experiences, observations and intellect are limited. No one is perfect. It takes listening and learning from one another to develop a more complete and accurate perspective.
Instead of assuming those that voted differently are morons, walk across the aisle and get to know them.
We live the way, the truth and the life.
“And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” (Colossians 1:17 ESV)
We know that God isn’t surprised by elections and our call remains the same regardless who sits in seats of human government. I’ll conclude with something I wrote on my personal facebook account:
“Every employer will tell you there are two kinds of employees: salary-makers and salary-takers. One believes the world owes them nothing and the other everything.
Every employee will tell you there are two kinds of employers: salary-sharers and salary-payers. One believes the world is theirs and the other ours.
At the end of the day, this provincial election comes down to where each voter falls on these spectrums.
It’s rare to find an employer or employee that is both hard-working and compassionate/generous. It’s even rarer still to find a political party with the same qualities.
Regardless of political outcomes, we do have control over our own work ethic and wallets. If each British Columbian pursued personal health in all areas, most of what goes on in Victoria would become irrelevant. Vote with wisdom, but don’t leave the health of our life and community to the government. Govern our own lives well.”
Good self-governance begins with “[seeking] first the kingdom of God and his righteousness” (Matthew 6:33a ESV).
Let us humble ourselves in gratitude (look at the cross), enjoyment (look at the resurrection) and worship (look at who is seated on the throne of the Universe: “And between the throne and the four living creatures and among the elders I saw a Lamb standing, as though it had been slain” (Revelation 5:6a ESV) – Jesus is on the Throne!
