By Brent Kompelien
This election is probably making you anxious about the future, frustrated with the political process, or disillusioned with our nation’s leaders. How should we respond? I want to remind us of a few important truths that should set us apart as gospel-believing Christians. I pray that these reminders help us “seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God” (Col. 3:1). Solano is a politically diverse congregation, but the following things unite us as brothers and sisters in Christ.
1. Remember to Pray
The Apostle Paul reminds us to pray for “kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way” (1 Timothy 2:2). Friends, if you are not praying as you head into election day, please start now. All Christians are commanded to be praying people. We must pray for our leaders, we must pray for wisdom for our voting decisions, and we must plead with God for peace in the coming political season. Let us join together in prayer as a church family.
2. Remember that Jesus is Lord
Jesus is Lord. Period. His authority and Lordship are not conferred on him by an electorate. His position as Head of the Church has no term limits. His name was given to him by God the Father, that every knee would bow and every tongue confess that Jesus is Lord (Phil. 2:9-11). Throughout the ages, Christians have always affirmed the fact that Jesus is Lord. This election could never change that truth. So no matter the outcome on November 8, Jesus is Lord over you, Jesus is Lord over this nation, and Jesus is Lord over all of history. He is the Lion of the Tribe of Judah who has triumphed! He is the slain Lamb sitting at the center of the throne encircled by all of creation in worship (Rev. 5:5-14). Jesus’ Lordship is central to the gospel and never in question for Christians.
3. Remember that Jesus is Savior
Do not believe the false gospel of any political party or any candidate. No political philosophy, party, or candidate can save you. Jesus alone is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). Beware of placing the hope of salvation in any other idea or person. Beware of the hollow promises to solve the ills of our society apart from the saving work of Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit to transform. Jesus alone saves.
4. Remember to be Grateful
God has ordained civil authorities for our good. He is sovereign over every human leader and we must trust in God (Rom. 13:1-5). Nowhere in Scripture are we given the right to vote. Instead, it is a tremendous privilege to participate in government! As with all things that are gifts from God and under God’s sovereign care and protection, we must be grateful. We are commanded to “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ for you” (1 Thess. 5:18). Go to the polls on Tuesday with a heart of gratitude and thanksgiving for the privilege of voting as a follower of Jesus!
5. Remember to Keep Fear, Hope, and the Gospel in Proper Perspective
Immediately before Jesus begins his high priestly prayer for his people, he says to his disciples, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). Christians don’t fear political opponents or political agendas. We fear God alone. And we don’t hope in our government or politicians. We hope in God alone. And we don’t believe in a social or political gospel. We believe in the gospel of Jesus Christ alone.
Brothers and sisters, I pray that we would remain rooted in the truth of the gospel in this election season. It is a blessing to prayerfully participate in our government. And yet no outcome on November 8 will change the eternal truth that Jesus is Lord and Savior. Amen!
I like that you started with prayer and ended with the reminder that we pray and vote because of our hope in God and not to control an outcome. I pray that politics will never keep me from those I love or those I could love.