Over the past six months it has been interesting to see how Christians have approached the national election. (I do wish we cared this much about local elections. School boards have a great impact on families.)
A few key concepts to consider—as we seek to approach the election as Christian Americans not American Christians. We must remembering that our allegiance is first to God, that we are citizens of heaven (Philippians 3:20) and then in reality aliens and stranger (1 Peter 2:11) in our country of birth.
Pray…
For your country
Personally I pray for mercy not justice. We may be citizens of a great country, but we are not, as a country, honoring God the way we could.
For leaders
They have been place in their role by God (Romans 13:1-7)
And somewhat convicting at times, we are called to give thanks for them (1 Timothy 2:1-2)
Gospel focused prayers
Ask God to do what He needs to do for His name sake and His reputation (Daniel 9:17-19)
Participate—take personal responsibility
Take personal responsibility. Get out and vote.
But also take responsibility by investing in your own community (see the principle in Jeremiah 29:7).
Providence—trust God
God is providential involvement in our lives, the life of our church and the life of our country. He has a bigger plan, a plan to ultimately bring Himself glory. Therefore trust Him—don’t fear or worry about “what ifs”.
Platform
As a church we welcome any who want to attend, regardless of political affiliation because we desire to make an impact on our local community.
As individual we should use our platform more to speak about the gospel then for political agendas.
It is easy to be consumed by political conversations and never share the gospel. Our society welcome political debate (even though they just those who disagree with them), but tell us that “religion” is a personal issue we should keep to ourselves.
You can discuss politics anywhere.
You can get information on whom to vote in many places.
But you may be the only sources of a clear and compelling presentation of the Gospel those in your circle of influence my hear.