Did you hear? The election is not over yet. Truth be known, we don’t know when we will know who won either.
By the end of today we should know much more. Although, knowing more does not mean we will know who the president will be for the next four years.
As I sit here and contemplate all that I have heard, read, and watched throughout yesterday evening, two main thoughts come to mind. We should respond in two primary ways – both corresponding to a different aspect of our lives.
Respond as a Citizen of the United States
As we watch the wrangling that takes place both in the various states and in Washington D.C., we want to respond as responsible citizens of the United States. What does that kind of response look like?
- Be kind to each other – those we agree with and those we don’t
- Try not to peddle in non-truth. Stick with what you know from reputable sources rather than just opinions.
- Be more committed to the integrity of the process of finishing the election rather than just your particular choice for President
- Be fruitful in other areas of your life – read a book, go to work, help a friend, be kind to a stranger – so that your mind is not consumed with politics
- Try not to go around criticizing either candidate or their party
Respond as a Citizen of Heaven
If you are a follower of Christ, you also are a citizen of Heaven (cf., Col 3:1-4). As such, you should recognize that your life is much bigger than simply this country or our president. Consider the following items:
- God is in control and we can trust Him.
- Faith is trusting God does everything for our good and consistent with His plan.
- The love Jesus has for us motivates us to serve Him and our neighbors.
- Take time to pray for everyone involved: fellow citizens, leaders, judges, attorneys, politicians, and yourself.
- Pray for God’s will to be done
- Pray for God’s providential care for us and our nation
- Consider the cares of those around you and pray for them specifically
- Pray for a focus on the return of Christ
- Go for a walk with a friend
The Reality is This…
Although we care as citizens of the US, this election should not control us. What should control us is our desire to love Christ supremely and our neighbors sincerely. As we seek to do this, we will find that when our minds are focused on God and serving others that we can breathe easier, not be so closely tied to the news, and capable to better handle the ups and downs of the news process over the coming days. Thankfully, God is in control and Jesus is our Lord – not the president of the United States.
Regardless of what happens, our lives change very little. We can smile as we envision our future as part of the family of God.
Blessings to you in Christ and May God bless America!!
KevinCarson.com | Wisdom for Life in Christ Together
