There’s been a lot of recent news about elections all over Facebook, which is my primary source of information. This may explain why I’m pathetically unaware of what’s going on in the world but am an expert on what Instagram filter is best for pictures of fancy dinners. (Always go with Nashville. You can’t go wrong.)
Politics is a touchy subject for many of us. It arouses our passions and emotions, and draws sharp dividing lines between people with differing opinions. I remember one argument I got into with one of my best friends because he was a single-issue voter which I found to be silly. (Note that this argument happened many years ago and do not reflect my current views. If you’re curious, my views now largely revolve around indifference.)
I don’t believe in using the pulpit to encourage one’s political leanings. Trying to persuade a certain voting outcome under the subtext of faith seems irresponsible to me. That doesn’t mean that the church should avoid issues that involve politics – we should be a standard bearer and truth proclaimer when it comes to issues of morality, compassion, charity, social goodwill, etc. Granted, not everyone may agree with what the Bible says, which is our rights as free Americans and free-thinking human beings designed in the image of God. However, this does not mean that God does not have a specific desire and agenda for the way our lives should be, and to ignore His word and truth is a very dangerous game.
That said, while I am encouraged by the desire, especially in our younger generation, of our society to vote and try to shape the landscape of our country with the power of voting, as Christians, ultimately, our power does not lie in our ability to mobilize a strong voting turnout or politic for certain government representatives. Rather, the power to change our country, our society, and our world comes from getting on our knees in prayer.
In 1 Timothy 2, Paul says, “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.” Paul’s desire is first and foremost for all of us to pray. And the purpose of these prayers – of praying for our leaders to make godly decisions, of praying for policy changes that are in favor of God’s commands, of praying for God-fearing men and women to be placed in positions of leadership – is ultimately to save people. It’s not to live in a land where I can pay less taxes so I can have a more comfortable life for my family. It’s not to live in a land where I have the freedom to do whatever I want because TEAM AMERICA! It’s to save people to Christ.
The truth is, there is a lot that I would like changed in America (and the world). There is a great need to vote and try to protect our society from… really ourselves. But rather than proudly wearing, “I voted!” stickers once every couple of years, I would rather our church simply pray every day for the leaders of our municipalities, counties, states, and country. I’d like to see what a bloc of praying Christians can do to change a nation rather than a huge voting turnout. This is the way our God works. And frankly, at the end of the day, I’m pretty sure God’s party, which isn’t Blue or Red, is going to win.
From Pastor David’s Heart
November 9, 2014