God is on the throne

The political season is finally over and we now know who will be the next president of the United States of America.  This was an historic election season ending in Donald Trump winning the Electoral College votes necessary to occupy the White House.  Regardless of how you voted or even if you voted, there are some actions that the people of God should take when it comes to the political process. 

​Pray for our political leaders.  In 1 Timothy 2:1-4, Paul instructs Timothy to pray for all those in authority.  Our prayers should be focused on preserving the freedom of religious expression and for the salvation of those in authority.  We should also pray for peace and protection in the land.  Remember that God can turn the direction of the heart of elected officials whichever way He chooses (Proverbs 21:1).

Be the church.  The church cannot expect the government to do our job.  As the people of God, we are the light of the world.  We are called to dispel darkness.  It is not the role of government to make America a Christian nation.  It is the job of Christians to make disciples for Christ.  When the church leads people to Christ, it really won’t matter what the law permits in terms of abortion, cohabitation or same sex marriage.  God’s people are compelled to obey a higher law.  So even if the laws of the land permit sin, Christians stand on the word of God.  We are not just to be the moral conscience of the nation.  We are to be initiators of change so that people can be transformed by the power of the gospel.  Our goal is not to have a nation full of good people.  Our charge is to move our country towards being a nation of God’s people. 

Love always.  Love leads us to protect, be kind, seek peace, and not be rude.  God is not Republican or Democrat.  God is love.  He has called us to love.  That means we speak to others in love.  We don’t allow political affiliation to divide the body of Christ or deter us from loving others. 

Participate in the process.  In scripture, God used voices outside of the government to influence the government.  He also placed His people in positions within the government to influence the government.  All politics starts in a local context.  In addition to voting in ALL elections, consider getting involved in your local government.  You may not run for mayor or congress, but you can become a part of government task forces and committees.  You can write your elected officials encouraging them to support or oppose certain pieces of legislation.  Attend neighborhood association meetings.  Do something to get involved.  As you get involved in the process, don’t be surprised if God elevates you to positions of greater influence.   

Live life.  Don’t live in fear of who is or isn’t in office.  Live in the assurance that God is on the throne.